The Polymer Society of Korea

Abstract

Implantable medical devices are essential in healthcare but often face biofouling issues that impair function and threaten patient safety. To address this, antifouling polymeric gel-like coatings have emerged as an effective solution to improve device biocompatibility and durability. This talk introduces fabrication and functionalization strategies of coatings aimed at reducing biofouling and thrombogenesis. Key advances include tuning surface properties—such as roughness, hydrophilicity, and mechanical modulus—to enhance performance. In vitro tests demonstrated significant inhibition of protein adsorption, cell adhesion, and bacterial colonization, as well as bactericidal activity. These findings highlight the potential of gel-based coatings to provide multifunctional antifouling and antithrombotic protection, paving the way for safer and longer-lasting implants.