Monomer for Biocompatible Polymers Containing Phospholipid Structure

2-(Methacryloyloxy)ethyl 2-(trimethylammonio)ethyl phosphate (MPC) is a zwitter ionic methacrylic acid with cation and anion in the molecule, and has a phosphorylcholine structure such as a phospholipid moiety of a cell membrane. MPC can polymerize by a conventional radical polymerization. It has been reported that the surfaces of metals, ceramics, and glasses are able to be modified and the interesting materials with MPC polymer containing phosphorylcholine structure have high bio/blood compatibility. For example, Ishihara et al. has polymerized the MPC on a silicon wafer which was modified via a surface-attachable initiator on the silane groups. It has been proven that the surface is covered with a brush structure of MPC polymer and takes on high hydrophilicity and repellency of protein adsorption. The MPC is not only expected to be applied in the field of medical devices but also biosensors, etc.