polymeric molecules including glycopolymers useful for biomolecular recognition processes are provided comprising anchoring groups by which they can be immobilized onto surfaces . these molecules are easily synthesized . they are broadly described as molecules comprising a polymer backbone with pendent multivalent groups attached to the polymer backbone and an anchoring group attached to the polymer backbone for covalently or noncovalently attaching the molecule to a surface or another molecule . such polymeric molecules can be attached to other molecules or surfaces to provide a wide range of bioactive materials . in addition , this invention provides sulfated glycopolymers which are useful for reducing blood coagulation , stimulating growth factors to bind to their receptors , stimulating cell proliferation and preventing degradation of soluble growth factors under conditions of low ph , heat , and proteolytic enzymes .