Preparation of novel mesoporous carbons for the adsorption of an inflammatory cytokine (IL-1 beta).

Abstract

Mesoporous carbons derived from two types of sulphonated styrene divinylbenzene copolymers (Macronet MN500HS and CT275, Purolite International Ltd) were produced and their adsorptive capacity for the proinflammatory cytokine IL-1 beta (MW 14.4 kDa) determined. The carbons produced had surface areas from 400 to 1200 m(2)g(-1) and pore volume between 0.2 and 1.4 cm(3)g(-1). The mechanical strength of the carbon beads with surface area values up to 800 m(2)g(-1) were robust. The highest adsorption value of IL-1 beta was 150 ng g(-1) for a mesoporous carbon with surface area around 900 m(2)g(-1) and pore volume around 1.3 cm(3)g(-1). However, there was a trade-off between adsorptive capacity and mechanical strength. When used in conjunction with existing treatment modalities, the materials produced have the potential to enhance the removal of uraemic toxins.