Synthesis and specific biomedical applications of polymer brushes

Abstract

The modification of surfaces with various polymer chains through interactions involving strong covalent bonds is a current focal point. The relevance of this subject lies in the diversification of polymeric structures, particularly applicable in biomedical engineering and medicine. Presently, designs for drug carrier systems have reached an advanced stage, and novel polymer-based materials have been successfully synthesized. Polymeric brushes find applications in crucial medical areas such as artificial tissue engineering, implants, and biosensors. The advantages of polymeric brushes include their sensitivity to stimuli, a variety of polymer types and synthesis methods, tunability, and high biocompatibility. This study comparatively examines grafting approaches and polymerization techniques frequently encountered in the literature, highlighting their primary medical applications.