Interfacial Properties of Hydrophobically Modified Biomolecules: Fundamental Aspects and Applications

This review describes the interfacial behavior of biomolecules, which were converted to more hydrophobic derivatives by covalent attachment of hydrophobic chains. The molecules presented are proteins (glucose oxidase, immunoglobulin G, gelatin, ovalbumin) and polysaccharides (carboxymethylcellulose, pullulan). In general, it was found that such hydrophobically modified biomolecules have enhanced surface activity and ability to penetrate into phospholipid monolayers. In addition, it has been demonstrated, that such molecules can be used as efficient emulsifiers and foaming agents, and in unique biomedical application based on combining the surface activity and recognition ability.