Affinity chromatography (AC) separates proteins on the basis of a reversible interaction between a protein (or group of proteins) and a specific ligand coupled to a chromatography matrix. The technique offers high selectivity, hence high resolution, and usually high capacity for the protein(s) of interest. Purification can be in the order of several thousand-fold and recoveries of active material are generally very high.
This volume of the Affinity Handbook describes the role of AC in the purification of specific groups of biomolecules, the principle of the technique, the chromatography media available and how to select them, application examples, and detailed instructions for the most commonly performed procedures. Practical information is given as a guide towards obtaining the desired results.