Improved batch and column separation in the assay of hemoglobin A2

Hemoglobin A2 is a batch fractionated on a column containing diethylaminoethyl-cellulose (DE52, Whatman) with a discontinuous buffer system at pH 8.9 and 7.3. A short micro-column method is also presented, which allows separation in less than 30 min with no interference from hemoglobin S. Both methods clearly distinguish normal from thalassemia specimens, and are simpler and more rapid than previously published methods.