Recent Advances in Mucoadhesive Interface Materials, Mucoadhesion Characterization, and Technologies

Mucoadhesion is an extremely important field of adhesion science and the comprehensive understanding and modulation of mucoadhesion can lead to lifesaving materials and technologies. For instance, deadly cases of COVID‐19 (SARS‐CoV‐2) cytokine storm are associated with viral adhesion and overproduction of mucus, which obstructs the airways. Mucin is the key polymeric compound that is known as a family of high molecular weight, heavily glycosylated proteins in epithelial tissues. Mucoadhesion can occur in many different ways such as receptor specific and charge interactions, covalent or noncovalent bonds. New mucin‐mimic polymers that replicate its beneficial traits can prevent biofilm formation and biofouling not only in biotechnology but also in membrane technologies. This review addresses the latest understandings related to mucin's role in wet adhesion considering different physiological conditions and shows how this translates into interfacial polymer adhesion. Advances in mucoadhesion measurement techniques including the rheological aspects of polymer–mucin adhesive interactions are presented. Specific mucoadhesive systems are discussed such as hydrogel mucoadhesion, catechol/dopamine functionalization, and polymeric nanoparticles. This overview may expand the current understanding of mucoadhesion between soft materials but also contributes to elastocapillary phenomena in soft materials design and applications such as new membranes, drugs, pharmaceutical devices, and lubricated surfaces. Understanding mucoadhesion can lead to lifesaving technologies. In this review, the special adhesion mechanisms between polymers and mucosal tissues are reviewed with unique cases and examples on recent advances in interface materials, characterization, and technologies. Mucin‐mimic polymers are also demonstrated, developed for the elimination of biofilm formation and biofouling not only in biotechnology applications but also in other surface and membrane technologies.