Berlin 2005 – scientific programme

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AKB: Biologische Physik

AKB 100: Poster Session I

AKB 100.51: Poster

Saturday, March 5, 2005, 16:45–18:45, Poster TU D

Kinetic and nanostructural analysis of protein adsorption on tailored substrates — •Anthony Quinn, Hubert Mantz, and Karin Jacobs — FR 7.2 Experimental Physics - Soft Matter, Saarland University, D-66123 Saarbrücken

The principal aim of this research is to identify the surface physicochemical properties that affect protein adsorption in the oral cavity, and ultimately to govern the structure and composition of the acquired salivary pellicle (the proteinaceous film that rapidly coats all intraoral surfaces). By controlling the composition of the pellicle on dental replacement materials via tailoring of their surface properties, it is anticipated that the rate and type of bacterial attachment can be reduced due to the highly specific nature of the bacteria/protein interaction. Hence the growth of dental plaque can be inhibited and the incidence of periodontal disease reduced.

A specific focus of this research will be on the effect of long-range forces emanating from the bulk material beneath any surface coating. For extremely thin surface coatings, such forces contribute to the total interfacial force, and hence alter protein adsorption. A combination of in-situ ellipsometry adsorption measurements, scanning probe microscopy, and wettability analysis are being undertaken to investigate these effects.