Bioadhesion
Bioadhesion refers to the ability of a material to adhere to biological surfaces, such as tissues or cells. This property is crucial in various fields, including medicine and biotechnology, where it can enhance the effectiveness of drug delivery systems and tissue engineering. Bioadhesive materials can improve the retention of therapeutic agents at targeted sites, leading to better treatment outcomes.
The mechanisms of bioadhesion involve physical and chemical interactions, such as van der Waals forces, hydrogen bonding, and electrostatic interactions. Researchers often study polymers and hydrogels to develop bioadhesive systems that can be used in applications like wound healing and surgical adhesives.