Generation of amphoteric surfaces via glow-discharge technique with single precursor and the behavior of bovine serum albumin at the surface

► Amphoteric silicone surfaces were generated with plasma polymerization technique. ► Amphotericity was achieved using a single monomer; diethyl allyl phosphate. ► Modified surfaces had improved protein anti-fouling properties. ► Protein adsorption decreased as the surface acid/base ratio approached 1. ► Modification helped the model protein to preserve more of its secondary structure.