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

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-1β (MW 14.4 kDa) determined. The carbons produced had surface areas from 400 to 1200 m2 g−1 and pore volume between 0.2 and 1.4 cm3 g−1. The mechanical strength of the carbon beads with surface area values up to 800 m2 g−1 were robust. The highest adsorption value of IL-1β was 150 ng g−1 for a mesoporous carbon with surface area around 900 m2 g−1 and pore volume around 1.3 cm3 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.