Dilemma on plasmid DNA purification: binding capacity vs selectivity

Plasmid DNA chromatography is a powerful field in constant development and evolution. The use of this technique is considered mandatory in the production of an efficient and safe formulation to be applied for plasmid-mediated gene therapy. Concerning this, the search for an ideal chromatographic support/ligand combination motivated scientist to pursue a continuous improvement on the plasmid chromatography performance, looking for a progression on the ligands and supports used. The present review explores the different approaches used over time to purify plasmid DNA, ambitioning both high recovery and high purity levels. Overall, it is presented a critical discussion relying on the relevance of the binding capacity versus selectivity of the supports.