Erratum: Preparation of Poly(pentafluorophenyl acrylate) Functionalized SiO₂ Beads for Protein Purification

Abstract

An erratum was issued for: Preparation of Poly(pentafluorophenyl acrylate) Functionalized SiO₂ Beads for Protein Purification.  Throughout the article, the term "3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane" has been replaced with "3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane", and "APTES" with "APTMS".

The Keywords were updated from:

Poly(pentafluorophenyl acrylate), 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane, reactive polymer brush, post-polymerization functionalization, antibody immobilization, immunoprecipitation

to:

Poly(pentafluorophenyl acrylate), 3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane, reactive polymer brush, post-polymerization functionalization, antibody immobilization, immunoprecipitation

The Abstract was updated from:

We demonstrate a simple method to prepare poly(pentafluorophenyl acrylate) (poly(PFPA)) grafted silica beads for antibody immobilization and subsequent immunoprecipitation (IP) application. The poly(PFPA) grafted surface is prepared via a simple two-step process. In the first step, 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) is deposited as a linker molecule onto the silica surface. In the second step, poly(PFPA) homopolymer, synthesized via the reversible addition and fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization, is grafted to the linker molecule through the exchange reaction between the pentafluorophenyl (PFP) units on the polymer and the amine groups on APTES. The deposition of APTES and poly(PFPA) on the silica particles are confirmed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), as well as monitored by the particle size change measured via dynamic light scattering (DLS). To improve the surface hydrophilicity of the beads, partial substitution of poly(PFPA) with amine-functionalized poly(ethylene glycol) (amino-PEG) is also performed. The PEG-substituted poly(PFPA) grafted silica beads are then immobilized with antibodies for IP application. For demonstration, an antibody against protein kinase RNA-activated (PKR) is employed, and IP efficiency is determined by Western blotting. The analysis results show that the antibody immobilized beads can indeed be used to enrich PKR while non-specific protein interactions are minimal.

to:

We demonstrate a simple method to prepare poly(pentafluorophenyl acrylate) (poly(PFPA)) grafted silica beads for antibody immobilization and subsequent immunoprecipitation (IP) application. The poly(PFPA) grafted surface is prepared via a simple two-step process. In the first step, 3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (APTMS) is deposited as a linker molecule onto the silica surface. In the second step, poly(PFPA) homopolymer, synthesized via the reversible addition and fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization, is grafted to the linker molecule through the exchange reaction between the pentafluorophenyl (PFP) units on the polymer and the amine groups on APTMS. The deposition of APTMS and poly(PFPA) on the silica particles are confirmed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), as well as monitored by the particle size change measured via dynamic light scattering (DLS). To improve the surface hydrophilicity of the beads, partial substitution of poly(PFPA) with amine-functionalized poly(ethylene glycol) (amino-PEG) is also performed. The PEG-substituted poly(PFPA) grafted silica beads are then immobilized with antibodies for IP application. For demonstration, an antibody against protein kinase RNA-activated (PKR) is employed, and IP efficiency is determined by Western blotting. The analysis results show that the antibody immobilized beads can indeed be used to enrich PKR while non-specific protein interactions are minimal.

The fourth paragraph of the Introduction was updated from:

In this contribution, we report an alternative method to prepare poly(PFPA) grafted surface for antibody immobilization and IP application. In a simple two-step process, as illustrated in Figure 1, an APTES linker molecule is first deposited onto the silica surface, then the poly(PFPA) polymer is covalently attached to the linker molecule through the reaction between the PFP units on the polymer and the amine functions on APTES. This preparation method allows for the permanent crosslinking of poly(PFPA) to a substrate surface, but avoids the many complications associated with SI-CTA synthesis and SI-RAFT polymerization of poly(PFPA) brushes. Partial substitution of the PFP units with amino-PEG can still be performed, allowing fine-tuning of the polymer brush surface properties. We show the poly(PFPA) grafted silica beads thus prepared can be immobilized with antibodies and used for protein enrichment via IP. The detailed bead preparation procedure, antibody immobilization, and IP testing are documented in this article, for readers interested in seeking an alternative to conventional Protein A/G based IP.

to:

In this contribution, we report an alternative method to prepare poly(PFPA) grafted surface for antibody immobilization and IP application. In a simple two-step process, as illustrated in Figure 1, an APTMS linker molecule is first deposited onto the silica surface, then the poly(PFPA) polymer is covalently attached to the linker molecule through the reaction between the PFP units on the polymer and the amine functions on APTMS. This preparation method allows for the permanent crosslinking of poly(PFPA) to a substrate surface, but avoids the many complications associated with SI-CTA synthesis and SI-RAFT polymerization of poly(PFPA) brushes. Partial substitution of the PFP units with amino-PEG can still be performed, allowing fine-tuning of the polymer brush surface properties. We show the poly(PFPA) grafted silica beads thus prepared can be immobilized with antibodies and used for protein enrichment via IP. The detailed bead preparation procedure, antibody immobilization, and IP testing are documented in this article, for readers interested in seeking an alternative to conventional Protein A/G based IP.

Step 2.1 of the Protocol was updated from:

Treatment of SiO₂ beads with APTES

to:

Treatment of SiO₂ beads with APTMS

Step 2.1.1 of the Protocol was updated from:

SiO₂ particles are available in the form of a 5% (w/v) aqueous suspension. Combine 0.8 mL of SiO₂ suspension with 40 mg of APTES and 8 mL of methanol in a 20 mL scintillation vial equipped with a stir bar.

to:

SiO₂ particles are available in the form of a 5% (w/v) aqueous suspension. Combine 0.8 mL of SiO₂ suspension with 40 mg of APTMS and 8 mL of methanol in a 20 mL scintillation vial equipped with a stir bar.

Step 2.1.3 of the Protocol was updated from:

Transfer the solution to a conical tube. To isolate the APTES functionalized SiO₂ beads, centrifuge the solution at 10,000 x g for 5 min, then remove the supernatant. Wash the beads by re-dispersing them in 3 mL of fresh methanol. Shake the tube by hand for mixing, but if necessary, improve the dispersion by sonication in a water bath for a few seconds. Centrifuge the beads at 10,000 x g for 5 min. Remove the supernatant and repeat the wash step one more time.

to:

Transfer the solution to a conical tube. To isolate the APTMS functionalized SiO₂ beads, centrifuge the solution at 10,000 x g for 5 min, then remove the supernatant. Wash the beads by re-dispersing them in 3 mL of fresh methanol. Shake the tube by hand for mixing, but if necessary, improve the dispersion by sonication in a water bath for a few seconds. Centrifuge the beads at 10,000 x g for 5 min. Remove the supernatant and repeat the wash step one more time.

Step 2.1.4 of the Protocol was updated from:

Combine the methanol washed SiO₂ beads with 3 mL of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). Shake the mixture by hand, or if necessary sonicate for a few seconds, until the beads are fully dispersed in DMSO. Centrifuge the beads at 10,000 x g for 5 min, then remove the supernatant. Repeat the step to ensure complete solvent exchange from methanol to DMSO.
NOTE: The final suspension contains the APTES functionalized SiO₂ beads dispersed in 4 mL of DMSO.

to:

Combine the methanol washed SiO₂ beads with 3 mL of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). Shake the mixture by hand, or if necessary sonicate for a few seconds, until the beads are fully dispersed in DMSO. Centrifuge the beads at 10,000 x g for 5 min, then remove the supernatant. Repeat the step to ensure complete solvent exchange from methanol to DMSO.
NOTE: The final suspension contains the APTMS functionalized SiO₂ beads dispersed in 4 mL of DMSO.

Step 2.2 of the Protocol was updated from:

Grafting poly(PFPA) to APTES functionalized SiO₂ beads

to:

Grafting poly(PFPA) to APTMS functionalized SiO₂ beads

Step 2.2.2 of the Protocol was updated from:

Add 1 mL of APTES functionalized SiO₂ beads suspended in DMSO (from Step 2.1.4) to the poly(PFPA) solution. React at RT for 1 h with vigorous stirring.

to:

Add 1 mL of APTMS functionalized SiO₂ beads suspended in DMSO (from Step 2.1.4) to the poly(PFPA) solution. React at RT for 1 h with vigorous stirring.

Step 3.4 of the Protocol was updated from:

To prepare APTES functionalized SiO₂ beads suspended in DMSO, follow the same steps shown in Step 2.1. Transfer 1 mL of the bead suspension into the PEG-substituted poly(PFPA) solution prepared in Step 3.3. Allow the grafting between poly(PFPA) and APTES functionalized SiO₂ beads to proceed at RT for 1 h with vigorous stirring.

to:

To prepare APTMS functionalized SiO₂ beads suspended in DMSO, follow the same steps shown in Step 2.1. Transfer 1 mL of the bead suspension into the PEG-substituted poly(PFPA) solution prepared in Step 3.3. Allow the grafting between poly(PFPA) and APTMS functionalized SiO₂ beads to proceed at RT for 1 h with vigorous stirring.

The first paragraph of the Representative Results was updated from:

A schematic for the preparation of poly(PFPA) grafted SiO₂ beads, with or without PEG substitution is shown in Figure 1. To monitor the APTES and poly(PFPA) grafting process, bare SiO₂ beads, APTES functionalized SiO₂ beads, and poly(PFPA) grafted SiO₂ beads are characterized by both DLS (Figure 2) and XPS (Figure 3). IP efficiencies of the beads are determined by Western blotting. Figure 4 shows the Western blotting results for IP using 1% PEG-substituted poly(PFPA) grafted beads, where the beads are incubated with no antibody, a non-specific antibody, or anti-PKR antibody. Figure 5 shows the Western blotting results for IP using 0% PEG-substituted poly(PFPA) grafted beads and 1% PEG-substituted poly(PFPA) grafted beads, both incubated with anti-PKR antibodies.

to:

A schematic for the preparation of poly(PFPA) grafted SiO₂ beads, with or without PEG substitution is shown in Figure 1. To monitor the APTMS and poly(PFPA) grafting process, bare SiO₂ beads, APTMS functionalized SiO₂ beads, and poly(PFPA) grafted SiO₂ beads are characterized by both DLS (Figure 2) and XPS (Figure 3). IP efficiencies of the beads are determined by Western blotting. Figure 4 shows the Western blotting results for IP using 1% PEG-substituted poly(PFPA) grafted beads, where the beads are incubated with no antibody, a non-specific antibody, or anti-PKR antibody. Figure 5 shows the Western blotting results for IP using 0% PEG-substituted poly(PFPA) grafted beads and 1% PEG-substituted poly(PFPA) grafted beads, both incubated with anti-PKR antibodies.

Figure 1 was updated from:

Figure 1: Schematic for the preparation of poly(PFPA) grafted SiO₂ beads using APTES as a linker molecule. (a) Poly(PFPA) grafted beads. (b) Partially PEG-substituted poly(PFPA) grafted beads.

to:

Figure 1: Schematic for the preparation of poly(PFPA) grafted SiO₂ beads using APTMS as a linker molecule. (a) Poly(PFPA) grafted beads. (b) Partially PEG-substituted poly(PFPA) grafted beads.

Figure 2 was updated from:

Figure 2: DLS measurements for (a) bare SiO₂ beads (SiO₂), (b) APTES functionalized SiO₂ beads (APTES-SiO₂), and (c) poly(PFPA) grafted SiO₂ beads (poly(PFPA)-SiO₂), dispersed in DMSO. The Z-average diameter (d) and polydispersity index (PDI) of each sample are reported.

to:

Figure 2: DLS measurements for (a) bare SiO₂ beads (SiO₂), (b) APTMS functionalized SiO₂ beads (APTMS-SiO₂), and (c) poly(PFPA) grafted SiO₂ beads (poly(PFPA)-SiO₂), dispersed in DMSO. The Z-average diameter (d) and polydispersity index (PDI) of each sample are reported.

Figure 3 was updated from:

Figure 3: XPS spectra for bare SiO₂ beads (SiO₂), APTES functionalized SiO₂ beads (APTES-SiO₂), and poly(PFPA) grafted SiO₂ beads (poly(PFPA)-SiO₂). The peaks examined correspond to (a) Si 2p, (b) O 1s, (c) N 1s, and (d) F 1s.

to:

Figure 3: XPS spectra for bare SiO₂ beads (SiO₂), APTMS functionalized SiO₂ beads (APTMS-SiO₂), and poly(PFPA) grafted SiO₂ beads (poly(PFPA)-SiO₂). The peaks examined correspond to (a) Si 2p, (b) O 1s, (c) N 1s, and (d) F 1s.

The first and second paragraphs of the Discussion were updated from:

The synthesis of poly(PFPA) grafted SiO₂ beads is illustrated in Figure 1. By employing APTES as a linker molecule, poly(PFPA) brushes covalently grafted to SiO₂ substrate can be prepared via a simple two-step process. Although some of the PFP units are sacrificed for the reaction with APTES, a large number of the PFP units are expected to remain available for later reaction with either amino-PEG or antibodies. The PFP groups are known to form low energy surfaces so poly(PFPA) brushes do not solvate well in water²⁸. For IP application, the antibodies need to be immobilized on the poly(PFPA) brushes, and this exchange reaction is done in aqueous buffer solution in order to preserve the activity of the antibodies. As reported in our previous publication, partial substitution of the PFP units with hydrophilic molecules such as amine-functionalized PEG can improve surface hydrophilicity, leading to increased antibody immobilization efficiency¹⁸. In this study, partially PEG substituted poly(PFPA) is also prepared, then grafted to the SiO₂ surface using the same APTES linker molecule. Overall, the methods illustrated in Figure 1 allow the preparation of poly(PFPA) grafted surfaces with different degrees of PEG substitution. These polymer brushes with tunable surface properties provide an ideal platform for antibody immobilization and subsequent IP application.

The bead preparation process is monitored by both DLS and XPS. The DLS results for various functionalized SiO₂ beads in DMSO are summarized in Figure 2. The bare SiO₂ beads exhibit hydrodynamic diameter of 666 nm, in agreement with the manufacturer reported bead size (0.676 μm; SD = 0.03 μm). After APTES treatment, the bead diameter increases to 740 nm; and with poly(PFPA) treatment, the bead diameter further increases to 1889 nm. It is important to point out that the polydispersity index (PDI) for the poly(PFPA) grafted beads is rather large (PDI = 0.76), which is indicative of poor quality sample containing large aggregates. Although the DLS curve only shows one nano-sized peak, small amount of aggregates may be present in the suspension. The functionalized SiO₂ beads are also examined by XPS to determine surface composition (Figure 3). Following APTES treatment, N 1s peak associated with the amine groups on APTES is detected. And, following poly(PFPA) treatment, F 1s peak associated with the PFP units on the polymer is detected. Together these data show the successful functionalization of the SiO₂ surface, first with APTES, then with poly(PFPA).

to:

The synthesis of poly(PFPA) grafted SiO₂ beads is illustrated in Figure 1. By employing APTMS as a linker molecule, poly(PFPA) brushes covalently grafted to SiO₂ substrate can be prepared via a simple two-step process. Although some of the PFP units are sacrificed for the reaction with APTMS, a large number of the PFP units are expected to remain available for later reaction with either amino-PEG or antibodies. The PFP groups are known to form low energy surfaces so poly(PFPA) brushes do not solvate well in water²⁸. For IP application, the antibodies need to be immobilized on the poly(PFPA) brushes, and this exchange reaction is done in aqueous buffer solution in order to preserve the activity of the antibodies. As reported in our previous publication, partial substitution of the PFP units with hydrophilic molecules such as amine-functionalized PEG can improve surface hydrophilicity, leading to increased antibody immobilization efficiency¹⁸. In this study, partially PEG substituted poly(PFPA) is also prepared, then grafted to the SiO₂ surface using the same APTMS linker molecule. Overall, the methods illustrated in Figure 1 allow the preparation of poly(PFPA) grafted surfaces with different degrees of PEG substitution. These polymer brushes with tunable surface properties provide an ideal platform for antibody immobilization and subsequent IP application.

The bead preparation process is monitored by both DLS and XPS. The DLS results for various functionalized SiO₂ beads in DMSO are summarized in Figure 2. The bare SiO₂ beads exhibit hydrodynamic diameter of 666 nm, in agreement with the manufacturer reported bead size (0.676 μm; SD = 0.03 μm). After APTMS treatment, the bead diameter increases to 740 nm; and with poly(PFPA) treatment, the bead diameter further increases to 1889 nm. It is important to point out that the polydispersity index (PDI) for the poly(PFPA) grafted beads is rather large (PDI = 0.76), which is indicative of poor quality sample containing large aggregates. Although the DLS curve only shows one nano-sized peak, small amount of aggregates may be present in the suspension. The functionalized SiO₂ beads are also examined by XPS to determine surface composition (Figure 3). Following APTMS treatment, N 1s peak associated with the amine groups on APTMS is detected. And, following poly(PFPA) treatment, F 1s peak associated with the PFP units on the polymer is detected. Together these data show the successful functionalization of the SiO₂ surface, first with APTMS, then with poly(PFPA).

Protocol

An erratum was issued for: Preparation of Poly(pentafluorophenyl acrylate) Functionalized SiO₂ Beads for Protein Purification.  Throughout the article, the term "3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane" has been replaced with "3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane", and "APTES" with "APTMS".

The Keywords were updated from:

Poly(pentafluorophenyl acrylate), 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane, reactive polymer brush, post-polymerization functionalization, antibody immobilization, immunoprecipitation

to:

Poly(pentafluorophenyl acrylate), 3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane, reactive polymer brush, post-polymerization functionalization, antibody immobilization, immunoprecipitation

The Abstract was updated from:

We demonstrate a simple method to prepare poly(pentafluorophenyl acrylate) (poly(PFPA)) grafted silica beads for antibody immobilization and subsequent immunoprecipitation (IP) application. The poly(PFPA) grafted surface is prepared via a simple two-step process. In the first step, 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) is deposited as a linker molecule onto the silica surface. In the second step, poly(PFPA) homopolymer, synthesized via the reversible addition and fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization, is grafted to the linker molecule through the exchange reaction between the pentafluorophenyl (PFP) units on the polymer and the amine groups on APTES. The deposition of APTES and poly(PFPA) on the silica particles are confirmed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), as well as monitored by the particle size change measured via dynamic light scattering (DLS). To improve the surface hydrophilicity of the beads, partial substitution of poly(PFPA) with amine-functionalized poly(ethylene glycol) (amino-PEG) is also performed. The PEG-substituted poly(PFPA) grafted silica beads are then immobilized with antibodies for IP application. For demonstration, an antibody against protein kinase RNA-activated (PKR) is employed, and IP efficiency is determined by Western blotting. The analysis results show that the antibody immobilized beads can indeed be used to enrich PKR while non-specific protein interactions are minimal.

to:

We demonstrate a simple method to prepare poly(pentafluorophenyl acrylate) (poly(PFPA)) grafted silica beads for antibody immobilization and subsequent immunoprecipitation (IP) application. The poly(PFPA) grafted surface is prepared via a simple two-step process. In the first step, 3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (APTMS) is deposited as a linker molecule onto the silica surface. In the second step, poly(PFPA) homopolymer, synthesized via the reversible addition and fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization, is grafted to the linker molecule through the exchange reaction between the pentafluorophenyl (PFP) units on the polymer and the amine groups on APTMS. The deposition of APTMS and poly(PFPA) on the silica particles are confirmed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), as well as monitored by the particle size change measured via dynamic light scattering (DLS). To improve the surface hydrophilicity of the beads, partial substitution of poly(PFPA) with amine-functionalized poly(ethylene glycol) (amino-PEG) is also performed. The PEG-substituted poly(PFPA) grafted silica beads are then immobilized with antibodies for IP application. For demonstration, an antibody against protein kinase RNA-activated (PKR) is employed, and IP efficiency is determined by Western blotting. The analysis results show that the antibody immobilized beads can indeed be used to enrich PKR while non-specific protein interactions are minimal.

The fourth paragraph of the Introduction was updated from:

In this contribution, we report an alternative method to prepare poly(PFPA) grafted surface for antibody immobilization and IP application. In a simple two-step process, as illustrated in Figure 1, an APTES linker molecule is first deposited onto the silica surface, then the poly(PFPA) polymer is covalently attached to the linker molecule through the reaction between the PFP units on the polymer and the amine functions on APTES. This preparation method allows for the permanent crosslinking of poly(PFPA) to a substrate surface, but avoids the many complications associated with SI-CTA synthesis and SI-RAFT polymerization of poly(PFPA) brushes. Partial substitution of the PFP units with amino-PEG can still be performed, allowing fine-tuning of the polymer brush surface properties. We show the poly(PFPA) grafted silica beads thus prepared can be immobilized with antibodies and used for protein enrichment via IP. The detailed bead preparation procedure, antibody immobilization, and IP testing are documented in this article, for readers interested in seeking an alternative to conventional Protein A/G based IP.

to:

In this contribution, we report an alternative method to prepare poly(PFPA) grafted surface for antibody immobilization and IP application. In a simple two-step process, as illustrated in Figure 1, an APTMS linker molecule is first deposited onto the silica surface, then the poly(PFPA) polymer is covalently attached to the linker molecule through the reaction between the PFP units on the polymer and the amine functions on APTMS. This preparation method allows for the permanent crosslinking of poly(PFPA) to a substrate surface, but avoids the many complications associated with SI-CTA synthesis and SI-RAFT polymerization of poly(PFPA) brushes. Partial substitution of the PFP units with amino-PEG can still be performed, allowing fine-tuning of the polymer brush surface properties. We show the poly(PFPA) grafted silica beads thus prepared can be immobilized with antibodies and used for protein enrichment via IP. The detailed bead preparation procedure, antibody immobilization, and IP testing are documented in this article, for readers interested in seeking an alternative to conventional Protein A/G based IP.

Step 2.1 of the Protocol was updated from:

Treatment of SiO₂ beads with APTES

to:

Treatment of SiO₂ beads with APTMS

Step 2.1.1 of the Protocol was updated from:

SiO₂ particles are available in the form of a 5% (w/v) aqueous suspension. Combine 0.8 mL of SiO₂ suspension with 40 mg of APTES and 8 mL of methanol in a 20 mL scintillation vial equipped with a stir bar.

to:

SiO₂ particles are available in the form of a 5% (w/v) aqueous suspension. Combine 0.8 mL of SiO₂ suspension with 40 mg of APTMS and 8 mL of methanol in a 20 mL scintillation vial equipped with a stir bar.

Step 2.1.3 of the Protocol was updated from:

Transfer the solution to a conical tube. To isolate the APTES functionalized SiO₂ beads, centrifuge the solution at 10,000 x g for 5 min, then remove the supernatant. Wash the beads by re-dispersing them in 3 mL of fresh methanol. Shake the tube by hand for mixing, but if necessary, improve the dispersion by sonication in a water bath for a few seconds. Centrifuge the beads at 10,000 x g for 5 min. Remove the supernatant and repeat the wash step one more time.

to:

Transfer the solution to a conical tube. To isolate the APTMS functionalized SiO₂ beads, centrifuge the solution at 10,000 x g for 5 min, then remove the supernatant. Wash the beads by re-dispersing them in 3 mL of fresh methanol. Shake the tube by hand for mixing, but if necessary, improve the dispersion by sonication in a water bath for a few seconds. Centrifuge the beads at 10,000 x g for 5 min. Remove the supernatant and repeat the wash step one more time.

Step 2.1.4 of the Protocol was updated from:

Combine the methanol washed SiO₂ beads with 3 mL of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). Shake the mixture by hand, or if necessary sonicate for a few seconds, until the beads are fully dispersed in DMSO. Centrifuge the beads at 10,000 x g for 5 min, then remove the supernatant. Repeat the step to ensure complete solvent exchange from methanol to DMSO.
NOTE: The final suspension contains the APTES functionalized SiO₂ beads dispersed in 4 mL of DMSO.

to:

Combine the methanol washed SiO₂ beads with 3 mL of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). Shake the mixture by hand, or if necessary sonicate for a few seconds, until the beads are fully dispersed in DMSO. Centrifuge the beads at 10,000 x g for 5 min, then remove the supernatant. Repeat the step to ensure complete solvent exchange from methanol to DMSO.
NOTE: The final suspension contains the APTMS functionalized SiO₂ beads dispersed in 4 mL of DMSO.

Step 2.2 of the Protocol was updated from:

Grafting poly(PFPA) to APTES functionalized SiO₂ beads

to:

Grafting poly(PFPA) to APTMS functionalized SiO₂ beads

Step 2.2.2 of the Protocol was updated from:

Add 1 mL of APTES functionalized SiO₂ beads suspended in DMSO (from Step 2.1.4) to the poly(PFPA) solution. React at RT for 1 h with vigorous stirring.

to:

Add 1 mL of APTMS functionalized SiO₂ beads suspended in DMSO (from Step 2.1.4) to the poly(PFPA) solution. React at RT for 1 h with vigorous stirring.

Step 3.4 of the Protocol was updated from:

To prepare APTES functionalized SiO₂ beads suspended in DMSO, follow the same steps shown in Step 2.1. Transfer 1 mL of the bead suspension into the PEG-substituted poly(PFPA) solution prepared in Step 3.3. Allow the grafting between poly(PFPA) and APTES functionalized SiO₂ beads to proceed at RT for 1 h with vigorous stirring.

to:

To prepare APTMS functionalized SiO₂ beads suspended in DMSO, follow the same steps shown in Step 2.1. Transfer 1 mL of the bead suspension into the PEG-substituted poly(PFPA) solution prepared in Step 3.3. Allow the grafting between poly(PFPA) and APTMS functionalized SiO₂ beads to proceed at RT for 1 h with vigorous stirring.

The first paragraph of the Representative Results was updated from:

A schematic for the preparation of poly(PFPA) grafted SiO₂ beads, with or without PEG substitution is shown in Figure 1. To monitor the APTES and poly(PFPA) grafting process, bare SiO₂ beads, APTES functionalized SiO₂ beads, and poly(PFPA) grafted SiO₂ beads are characterized by both DLS (Figure 2) and XPS (Figure 3). IP efficiencies of the beads are determined by Western blotting. Figure 4 shows the Western blotting results for IP using 1% PEG-substituted poly(PFPA) grafted beads, where the beads are incubated with no antibody, a non-specific antibody, or anti-PKR antibody. Figure 5 shows the Western blotting results for IP using 0% PEG-substituted poly(PFPA) grafted beads and 1% PEG-substituted poly(PFPA) grafted beads, both incubated with anti-PKR antibodies.

to:

A schematic for the preparation of poly(PFPA) grafted SiO₂ beads, with or without PEG substitution is shown in Figure 1. To monitor the APTMS and poly(PFPA) grafting process, bare SiO₂ beads, APTMS functionalized SiO₂ beads, and poly(PFPA) grafted SiO₂ beads are characterized by both DLS (Figure 2) and XPS (Figure 3). IP efficiencies of the beads are determined by Western blotting. Figure 4 shows the Western blotting results for IP using 1% PEG-substituted poly(PFPA) grafted beads, where the beads are incubated with no antibody, a non-specific antibody, or anti-PKR antibody. Figure 5 shows the Western blotting results for IP using 0% PEG-substituted poly(PFPA) grafted beads and 1% PEG-substituted poly(PFPA) grafted beads, both incubated with anti-PKR antibodies.

Figure 1 was updated from:

Figure 1: Schematic for the preparation of poly(PFPA) grafted SiO₂ beads using APTES as a linker molecule. (a) Poly(PFPA) grafted beads. (b) Partially PEG-substituted poly(PFPA) grafted beads.

to:

Figure 1: Schematic for the preparation of poly(PFPA) grafted SiO₂ beads using APTMS as a linker molecule. (a) Poly(PFPA) grafted beads. (b) Partially PEG-substituted poly(PFPA) grafted beads.

Figure 2 was updated from:

Figure 2: DLS measurements for (a) bare SiO₂ beads (SiO₂), (b) APTES functionalized SiO₂ beads (APTES-SiO₂), and (c) poly(PFPA) grafted SiO₂ beads (poly(PFPA)-SiO₂), dispersed in DMSO. The Z-average diameter (d) and polydispersity index (PDI) of each sample are reported.

to:

Figure 2: DLS measurements for (a) bare SiO₂ beads (SiO₂), (b) APTMS functionalized SiO₂ beads (APTMS-SiO₂), and (c) poly(PFPA) grafted SiO₂ beads (poly(PFPA)-SiO₂), dispersed in DMSO. The Z-average diameter (d) and polydispersity index (PDI) of each sample are reported.

Figure 3 was updated from:

Figure 3: XPS spectra for bare SiO₂ beads (SiO₂), APTES functionalized SiO₂ beads (APTES-SiO₂), and poly(PFPA) grafted SiO₂ beads (poly(PFPA)-SiO₂). The peaks examined correspond to (a) Si 2p, (b) O 1s, (c) N 1s, and (d) F 1s.

to:

Figure 3: XPS spectra for bare SiO₂ beads (SiO₂), APTMS functionalized SiO₂ beads (APTMS-SiO₂), and poly(PFPA) grafted SiO₂ beads (poly(PFPA)-SiO₂). The peaks examined correspond to (a) Si 2p, (b) O 1s, (c) N 1s, and (d) F 1s.

The first and second paragraphs of the Discussion were updated from:

The synthesis of poly(PFPA) grafted SiO₂ beads is illustrated in Figure 1. By employing APTES as a linker molecule, poly(PFPA) brushes covalently grafted to SiO₂ substrate can be prepared via a simple two-step process. Although some of the PFP units are sacrificed for the reaction with APTES, a large number of the PFP units are expected to remain available for later reaction with either amino-PEG or antibodies. The PFP groups are known to form low energy surfaces so poly(PFPA) brushes do not solvate well in water²⁸. For IP application, the antibodies need to be immobilized on the poly(PFPA) brushes, and this exchange reaction is done in aqueous buffer solution in order to preserve the activity of the antibodies. As reported in our previous publication, partial substitution of the PFP units with hydrophilic molecules such as amine-functionalized PEG can improve surface hydrophilicity, leading to increased antibody immobilization efficiency¹⁸. In this study, partially PEG substituted poly(PFPA) is also prepared, then grafted to the SiO₂ surface using the same APTES linker molecule. Overall, the methods illustrated in Figure 1 allow the preparation of poly(PFPA) grafted surfaces with different degrees of PEG substitution. These polymer brushes with tunable surface properties provide an ideal platform for antibody immobilization and subsequent IP application.

The bead preparation process is monitored by both DLS and XPS. The DLS results for various functionalized SiO₂ beads in DMSO are summarized in Figure 2. The bare SiO₂ beads exhibit hydrodynamic diameter of 666 nm, in agreement with the manufacturer reported bead size (0.676 μm; SD = 0.03 μm). After APTES treatment, the bead diameter increases to 740 nm; and with poly(PFPA) treatment, the bead diameter further increases to 1889 nm. It is important to point out that the polydispersity index (PDI) for the poly(PFPA) grafted beads is rather large (PDI = 0.76), which is indicative of poor quality sample containing large aggregates. Although the DLS curve only shows one nano-sized peak, small amount of aggregates may be present in the suspension. The functionalized SiO₂ beads are also examined by XPS to determine surface composition (Figure 3). Following APTES treatment, N 1s peak associated with the amine groups on APTES is detected. And, following poly(PFPA) treatment, F 1s peak associated with the PFP units on the polymer is detected. Together these data show the successful functionalization of the SiO₂ surface, first with APTES, then with poly(PFPA).

to:

The synthesis of poly(PFPA) grafted SiO₂ beads is illustrated in Figure 1. By employing APTMS as a linker molecule, poly(PFPA) brushes covalently grafted to SiO₂ substrate can be prepared via a simple two-step process. Although some of the PFP units are sacrificed for the reaction with APTMS, a large number of the PFP units are expected to remain available for later reaction with either amino-PEG or antibodies. The PFP groups are known to form low energy surfaces so poly(PFPA) brushes do not solvate well in water²⁸. For IP application, the antibodies need to be immobilized on the poly(PFPA) brushes, and this exchange reaction is done in aqueous buffer solution in order to preserve the activity of the antibodies. As reported in our previous publication, partial substitution of the PFP units with hydrophilic molecules such as amine-functionalized PEG can improve surface hydrophilicity, leading to increased antibody immobilization efficiency¹⁸. In this study, partially PEG substituted poly(PFPA) is also prepared, then grafted to the SiO₂ surface using the same APTMS linker molecule. Overall, the methods illustrated in Figure 1 allow the preparation of poly(PFPA) grafted surfaces with different degrees of PEG substitution. These polymer brushes with tunable surface properties provide an ideal platform for antibody immobilization and subsequent IP application.

The bead preparation process is monitored by both DLS and XPS. The DLS results for various functionalized SiO₂ beads in DMSO are summarized in Figure 2. The bare SiO₂ beads exhibit hydrodynamic diameter of 666 nm, in agreement with the manufacturer reported bead size (0.676 μm; SD = 0.03 μm). After APTMS treatment, the bead diameter increases to 740 nm; and with poly(PFPA) treatment, the bead diameter further increases to 1889 nm. It is important to point out that the polydispersity index (PDI) for the poly(PFPA) grafted beads is rather large (PDI = 0.76), which is indicative of poor quality sample containing large aggregates. Although the DLS curve only shows one nano-sized peak, small amount of aggregates may be present in the suspension. The functionalized SiO₂ beads are also examined by XPS to determine surface composition (Figure 3). Following APTMS treatment, N 1s peak associated with the amine groups on APTMS is detected. And, following poly(PFPA) treatment, F 1s peak associated with the PFP units on the polymer is detected. Together these data show the successful functionalization of the SiO₂ surface, first with APTMS, then with poly(PFPA).