Robust and ultra-stable nanohesive-based solid-like slippery coating under dynamic blood flow environment for durable prevention of thrombosis and biofouling.
Shu Zhang, Jihua Zou, Yupeng Xiao, Xiaoying Qiu, Yao Shen, Yijin Zhao, Tao Fan, Manxu Zheng, Guozhi Huang, Qing Zeng, Chengduan Yang
Abstract
Open AccessBiomedical devices face thrombosis and infection risks due to nonspecific bioadhesion. Although liquid-infused surfaces (LIS) exhibit anti-biofouling potential, lubricant loss under blood flow limits their utility. An innovative "solid-like" slippery coating (SSC) addresses this via amino-functionalized SiO2 nanoparticles anchoring carboxy terminated silicone oil within an epoxy resin matrix. The collective effects of electrostatic interactions, hydrogen bonds and van der Waals forces between nanoparticles and silicone oil, in combination with epoxy resin encapsulation and dense microstructures form by the cross-linked nanoparticles, ensure lubricant retention and mechanical stability. Benefiting from the "slippery" properties, SSC exhibits exceptional resistance to various aqueous-based liquids, proteins, bacteria, cells, and platelets adhesion. Under conditions of low shear rate (250 s-1, 30 days) or high shear rate (1750 s-1, 7 days), SSC modified medical catheters maintain outstanding anti-fouling (>71 %) and anti-thrombotic (>67 %) capabilities, achieving ultra-stable anti-fouling performance under dynamic blood flow conditions. In vivo arteriovenous shunt and implanted experiments demonstrated that SSC effectively prevents blood clot, reduces inflammation, and avoids organ damage, with outstanding biocompatibility. The technology provides a durable solution for blood-contacting biomedical devices through synergistic physical anchoring and chemical bonding mechanisms, enabling long-term infection resistance and thrombus prevention in dynamic fluid environments. The simple fabrication method enhances clinical translation prospects for medical implants requiring stable biological interface performance.