Clinical Potential of Immobilized Liquid Interfaces: Perspectives on Biological Interactions

Immobilized liquid (IL) surface coatings are an emerging technology that provide to materials the ability to repel complex biological fluids and hold promise in medical applications to prevent biological fouling, especially in the context of preventing medical device-induced thrombosis, fibrosis, and biofilm formation. However, little is known about the biological interactions of the IL with proteins and cells, and an increased understanding is critical for optimal device application, function, and successful clinical translation. Here, we review existing clinical and biological knowledge of the liquids used in these surface coatings, recent developments in understanding the biological interactions of IL coatings, and future directions and challenges for the clinical translation of this new class of IL surface coatings. IL surfaces represent a new class of surface coating for medical devices that presents a liquid interface to the host. IL surfaces are nontoxic and antiadhesive and, therefore, repel a range of biological fluids and cells. IL surfaces have wide-ranging applications in medical devices to reduce adhesion-mediated biological interactions, such as thrombosis, biofilm formation, and fibrosis. Sophisticated surfaces have been developed that encompass patterned repellent areas, which could allow implant integration as well as prevention of biological fouling. IL surfaces made with silicone oil can release desired molecules or drugs to provide additional functionality.