A decade of capillary electrophoresis

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Biochemistry
• Forensic Science

Background:

• Capillary electrophoresis (CE) has become a widespread analytical technique since the introduction of commercial instruments.
• CE is valued for its versatility in separating diverse analytes, including ions, neutral molecules, and biomolecules.
• Its applications span numerous fields like pharmaceutical analysis, molecular biology, and clinical diagnostics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the diverse applications and modes of capillary electrophoresis.
• To highlight CE's utility beyond separation, including physicochemical studies.
• To discuss emerging trends and future directions in CE technology.

Main Methods:

• Discussion of various CE modes: capillary zone electrophoresis, micellar electrokinetic chromatography, capillary gel electrophoresis, capillary isoelectric focusing, and capillary electrochromatography.
• Review of current applications in analytical, forensic, clinical, organic, and pharmaceutical chemistry, as well as molecular biology and chiral separations.
• Exploration of future advancements, including array capillary electrophoresis and microchip-based separations.

Main Results:

• CE is a powerful and adaptable technique for complex mixture analysis.
• The technique effectively addresses physicochemical questions and aids in chiral separations.
• CE instruments are integral to research and quality control in multiple scientific disciplines.

Conclusions:

• Capillary electrophoresis offers a broad range of applications and methodologies.
• Future developments in array CE and microchip technology promise enhanced capabilities.
• CE remains a critical tool for separation science and physicochemical analysis.