Interfacial behaviour of proteins, with special reference to immunoglobulins. A physicochemical study

Some basic elements of the adsorption of proteins on solid surfaces are briefly reviewed, emphasizing immunoglobulins. The paper focuses on the physicochemical interactions and considers the precautions that have to be taken to let the protein adsorb in a way in which it is biologically active. Contributing factors include surface pretreatment, composition of the solution, (pH, nature and concentration of electrolytes, etc.), extent of reversibility, and lateral interactions in the adsorbed state. Particular attention is paid to the option of partially pre-coating the adsorbent by irreversibly adsorbed polymers to induce the later adsorbing immune globulin molecules to assume a biologically preferred orientation and conformation. ⺠The adsorption of polymers and proteins depends on the kinetics of attachment. ⺠The degree of occupancy and the rates of relaxation are coupled parameters. ⺠Conditions for optimal specific biological activity can be defined.