Biocompatibility of modified polyetheretherketone (PEEK-WC) membranes: human plasma adsorption

Polymeric membranes are widely used in biomedical field for bioartificial organs, medical devices and disposable clinical apparatus. Clinical utilization of blood-contacting devices requires the development of biomaterials with improved blood compatibility. The aim of this work was the exploration of a potential biocompatible membrane derived from a modified polyetheretherketone such as PEEK-WC. The surface affinity of this membrane to human plasma and plasmatic proteins such as albumin, fibrinogen and immunoglobulin G was compared to that of some commercial membranes. Changes with time of the membrane interfacial properties were evaluated by means of contact angle measurements using human protein solutions and human plasma. The extent of plasma protein adsorption on all investigated membranes was measured by comparing the behavior of the different polymer surfaces when contacting the three plasmatic proteins.