Steady-state concentration distribution of ampholytes in isoelectric focusing in a linear immobilized pH gradient

The equation of balance between electrophoretic and diffusional mass flows in the steady state of isoelectric focusing is analyzed. To create the pH gradient, a model system composed of only one Immobiline is used. The solution is found for the case of a small sample concentration, but without assumptions about linear "focusing force" and constant (linear) conductivity profiles. The effect of sample concentration on the final concentration profile is also evaluated. At high sample concentrations, it is demonstrated that the steady-state distribution is essentially non-Gaussian and results in a considerably lower concentration maximum as compared with low sample levels.