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Isoelectric Focusing in Space

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  15 February 2011

M. Bier ,
N. B. Egen ,
R. A. Mosher  and
G. E. Twitty
M. Bier
Affiliation:
Biophysics Technology Laboratory, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
N. B. Egen
Affiliation:
Biophysics Technology Laboratory, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
R. A. Mosher
Affiliation:
Biophysics Technology Laboratory, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
G. E. Twitty
Affiliation:
Biophysics Technology Laboratory, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
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Abstract

The potential of space electrophoresis is conditioned by the fact that all electrophoretic techniques require the suppression of gravity-caused convection. Isoelectric focusing (IEF) is a powerful variant of electrophoresis, in which amphoteric substances are separated in a pH gradient according to their isoelectric points. A new apparatus for large scale IEF, utilizing a recycling principle, has been developed. In the ground-based prototype, laminar flow is provided by a series of parallel filter elements. The operation of the apparatus is monitored by an automated array of pH and ultraviolet absorption sensors under control of a desk-top computer. The apparatus has proven to be useful for the purification of a variety of enzymes, snake venom proteins, peptide hormones, and other biologicals, including interferon produced by genetic engineering techniques. In planning for a possible space apparatus, a crucial question regarding electroosmosis needs to be addressed. To solve this problem, simple focusing test modules are planned for inclusion in an early Shuttle flight.

Type
Research Article
Information
MRS Online Proceedings Library (OPL) , Volume 9 , 1981 , 261
Copyright
Copyright © Materials Research Society 1982

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References

REFERENCES

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