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Protein partitioning in weakly charged polymer-surfactant aqueous two-phase systems
U Sivars1, K Bergfeldt, L Piculell
1Department of Biochemistry, Lund University, Sweden.
Summary
Protein partitioning in dextran-C12E5 systems is effectively controlled by adjusting micelle charge using charged surfactants like SDS or DoTAC. This method allows for precise manipulation of protein separation based on their net charge.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Separation Science
- Physical Chemistry
Background:
- Aqueous two-phase systems (ATPS) are utilized for biomolecule separation.
- Non-ionic surfactants can form micelle-enriched phases in ATPS.
- Controlling phase properties is crucial for effective separation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate protein partitioning in dextran-C12E5 ATPS.
- To explore the impact of charged surfactants on protein separation.
- To demonstrate tunable charge manipulation for protein partitioning.
Main Methods:
- Partitioning of model proteins (BSA, beta-lactoglobulin, myoglobin, cytochrome c, lysozyme) in dextran-C12E5 systems.
- Introduction of charge into micelles using sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS) or dodecyl trimethyl ammonium chloride (DoTAC).
- Comparison of partitioning in non-charged, charged micelle, and charged polymer (dextran sulphate) systems.
Main Results:
- Protein partition coefficients are significantly influenced by the addition of charged surfactants (SDS, DoTAC) or dextran sulphate.
- The observed effects on partitioning are directly correlated with the net charge of the proteins.
- Charge manipulation of mixed micelles allows for independent control of charge sign and magnitude.
Conclusions:
- Charged surfactants and polymers provide effective means to modulate protein partitioning in dextran-C12E5 ATPS.
- Protein separation can be precisely controlled by tuning the electrostatic interactions within the system.
- This study highlights a versatile approach for selective protein separation using tunable charged ATPS.