Sepharose Chromatography is a technique used to separate and purify proteins based on their size and charge. The word Sepharose is spelled /sɛˈfærəʊz/ with the stress on the second syllable. It is a trademarked name for a type of gel filtration matrix used in protein purification. Chromatography is spelled /krəˈmætəɡrəfi/ with the stress on the second syllable. It refers to the method of separating molecules based on their physical and chemical properties. Together, Sepharose Chromatography is a powerful tool used in the field of biochemistry to isolate and analyze proteins.
Sepharose chromatography refers to a separation technique used in biochemistry and molecular biology to purify proteins and other biomolecules. It involves the use of a solid support matrix called Sepharose, which is a cross-linked agarose gel incorporating a specific ligand or functional group.
The Sepharose matrix provides a highly porous and stable structure, capable of effectively capturing and separating biomolecules based on their size, charge, or affinity for a particular ligand. The selection of a specific ligand immobilized onto the Sepharose matrix allows for the selective binding of target molecules, while non-target molecules are eluted during the chromatography process.
Sepharose chromatography operates on the principle that different molecules will have varying affinities for the immobilized ligand, resulting in differential binding and elution. By adjusting the experimental parameters such as pH, ionic strength, and the concentration of ligands, separation and purification of biomolecules can be achieved.
This technique finds extensive application in numerous areas of research and biotechnology, particularly in protein purification and analysis. Sepharose chromatography provides high-resolution separations and is often utilized for the isolation and purification of enzymes, antibodies, nucleic acids, and other proteins from complex mixtures.
Overall, Sepharose chromatography is a versatile and powerful technique in the field of biochemistry, allowing for the purification of biomolecules with high selectivity, efficiency, and scalability.
The word "Sepharose" is a trademarked name for a type of resin that was developed for chromatography purposes. The term is derived from the combination of two words: "Sephadex" and "cellulose". "Sephadex" is another trademarked name for a type of chromatography resin that was developed by Pharmacia (now part of GE Healthcare). The term "Sephadex" is a contraction of "separation" and "dextran", as the resin consists of cross-linked dextran beads used for separating molecules based on their size. "Cellulose" refers to the natural polymer found in plant cell walls, often used as a base material for chromatography resins.