Interfaces between biomaterials and living system are critical in
regulating their interactions. Poor biocontact properties always limited
the performance of biomaterials in biological environment. Surface
engineering aims to control the interface interaction to further enhance
the desired behavior of biomaterials. Upon implantation of biomaterials
into the biological environment, a series of host responses are
initiated. Non-specific protein adsorption on biomaterials is the
essential stage of all biological reactions that associated with
implants failure, device-related infections and blood-coagulation. In
this review, we first focused on surface modification techniques to
eliminate protein adsorption by emphasizing PEGylation of both
macroscopic surface and nanoparticle system. Next, recent developments
in surface engineering of biomaterials to optimize interactions between
biomaterials and specific host tissue and organs are discussed.
Optimizing the biocontact property of blood-contact devices can improve
their hemocompatibility and maintain vascular homeostasis. Surface
modifications of orthopedic and dental implants confer improved
osteointegration and tribology performance. Controlling the surface
chemistry and topography, and immobilizing biomolecules can aid the
expansion and direct the differentiation of stem cells.