Functionalized

Functionalized (verb, past participle of functionalize) refers to the process of adding a specific functional group to a molecule, material, or surface to impart new or enhanced properties. This process often involves chemical reactions that introduce specific atoms or groups of atoms (e.g., hydroxyl, amine, carboxyl) that can participate in further reactions, interact with other molecules, or alter the physical characteristics of the original substance. The aim is to tailor the material's behavior for a particular application, such as improved reactivity, increased stability, enhanced biocompatibility, or targeted delivery. Functionalization can significantly impact a material's solubility, adhesion, catalytic activity, and overall performance. The approach varies widely depending on the target material and desired functionality, often leveraging organic, inorganic, or polymer chemistry techniques.

Functionalized meaning with examples

• The scientists functionalized the graphene sheets with carboxyl groups to improve their dispersibility in water and enhance their ability to bind to specific proteins. This modification enabled the use of graphene as a biosensor for detecting disease markers. The added carboxyl groups provided binding sites making the material more suitable for bio-application.
• In drug delivery research, researchers functionalized nanoparticles with targeting ligands, like antibodies or peptides. This targeting strategy allowed the nanoparticles to selectively bind to cancer cells, increasing drug accumulation at the tumor site while minimizing side effects on healthy tissues. The addition allowed for a more direct approach.
• The researchers functionalized the surface of the implant with a bioactive coating containing growth factors. The goal was to enhance the integration of the implant with surrounding bone tissue. The functionalized surface promoted cell adhesion and proliferation, leading to faster and stronger bone formation around the implant. This would also strengthen it.
• To improve the adhesion of the paint to the plastic substrate, the manufacturer functionalized the plastic surface with a plasma treatment. This treatment introduced polar functional groups, improving the surface energy of the plastic and allowing the paint molecules to better adhere. This gave a more stable application.
• The team functionalized the polymer with a photochromic unit. This change allowed the material to change color reversibly upon exposure to light, creating potential applications in smart windows and optical storage devices. They introduced the ability to react to a change, that changed it.