Sticky mussels and click chemistry

Messersmith group contributed significantly in revealing the mechanism how mussels stick firmly to a variety of surfaces (Science 2007, 318, 426). Early 2010, this nature-inspired, dopamine-based polymerization was further developed by the same group into a surgical glue now in trials. 

Now Muller group married dopamine chemistry and click chemistry for the functionalization of Fe3O4 nanoparticles. The dopamine linker with an alkyne group allows for supersticky coating AND superb subsequent modifications via click chemistry. 

Macromolecular Rapid Communications, first published online: 8 JUL 2010

DOI: 10.1002/marc.201000193

Indeed the strategies can pave the way for a simple and universal functionalization for any kind of surface.