Surface Modification Chemistries and Their Utilization in Microarrays, Diagnostics and Drug Delivery

Completion of the human genome has resulted in a paradigm shift in the way biological queries are addressed today. Things that were considered far-fetched only a few years ago, such as personalized medicines, seem to be within our reach. New informatics and research tools have been devised to handle and analyze the influx of a huge amount of data, such as gene chips and microarrays or newly introduced nanoarrays. These devices are used to monitor biochemical and molecular interactions in a highly parallel and automated fashion. Such applications are also multiplexed on microspheres for diagnostic purposes. Because of the advantages of high throughput and high sensitivity, arrays and microspheres are fast becoming indispensable tools in diagnostics, drug discovery, clinical trials and other areas. Surface chemistry is one of the key factors to consider in successfully making sensitive and robust devices. Surface not only controls the anchoring of biomolecules, but also affects molecular interactions. SurModics uses its PhotoLink photochemistry, to modify surface characteristics of devices for numerous applications, such as biomolecule and cell attachment, drug delivery, passivation of the surface, hemocompatibility and gene therapy. Surface coatings vary from sub micron to several microns in thickness. Such surface modification could also improve the performance of nano devices, such as biological micro-electromechanical systems, biosensors and microfluidic systems. SurModics has also used its surface modification technology to provide local, site-specific drug delivery from medical devices. The intent of combining drug delivery with the device is either to enhance the function and biocompatibility of the device or to simply serve as a vehicle for efficient drug delivery to a targeted tissue location. Unique formulations of a variety of polymer coatings have been combined with drugs to achieve stable, uniform films on medical device surfaces. After implantation, the surface film releases drug locally to provide the therapeutic benefit in the vicinity of the medical device.