Chapter 13: Application of Metal Phosphonates to Biotechnologies

Since the late 70s, it has been demonstrated that phosphonic acids, RPO₃H₂ [R is an organic component], have the ability to coordinate a wide range of cations, leading to the formation of PO–metal bonds which in some cases can be highly covalent. During the last two decades, this unique property has quite naturally led to the use of phosphonic acids as a route to functional materials by surface modification of metals and metal oxides, as well as any type of solid having surface exposed metal centers. This chapter will highlight how metal phosphonate chemistry can be used for the design of novel materials in the area of biotechnologies.

Particular emphasis will be given to:

the surface modification of various implants:

1. with suitable terminal functions capable of inhibiting bacterial adhesion thus preventing biofilm formation and risks of infection, or

2. with bioactive molecules to favor interaction of the implant with cells or

3. with drugs for the subsequent use of the implants as local drug delivery systems.

the use of metal phosphonate surfaces for

1. the purification of complex biological media, upon selective interaction with specific target molecules on the surface, or

2. the efficient and oriented immobilization of biological probes for the design of DNA or protein microarrays.

the bioconjugation of nanoparticles for the design of platforms towards diagnosis or therapy.