Magnetic separation of proteins by a self-assembled supramolecular ternary complex

The easy and effective separation of proteins from a mixture is crucial in proteomics. A supramolecular method is described to selectively capture and precipitate one protein from a protein mixture upon application of a magnetic field. A multivalent complex self-assembles in a dilute aqueous solution of three components: magnetic nanoparticles capped with cyclodextrin, non-covalent cross-linkers with an adamantane and a carbohydrate moiety, and lectins. The self-assembled ternary complex is precipitated in a magnetic field and readily redispersed with the aid of a non-ionic surfactant and competitive binding agents. This strategy to purify proteins by supramolecular magnetic precipitation is highly selective and efficient.