Capillary Electrophoresis in Biotechnology

Abstract

Capillary electrophoresis (CE) is a versatile micro/macroanalytical technique gaining widespread usage for the separation and analysis of ionic substances. It has captured the attention of those working in a variety of arenas focused on biologically-active molecules. Its appealing characteristics include unprecedented mass sensitivity and the ability for precise, automated electrophoretic separation of microvolume samples with relatively short analysis times. Such versatility in bioanalysis makes it an inviting replacement for some of the labor-intensive, time-consuming methodologies performed via electrophoretic gels. Moreover, CE compliments the ease and speed of HPLC while eliminating the problem of excessive solvent volume usage and hazardous waste disposal. Further attractive characteristics of this technology include the analyses of a diverse spectrum of analytes, ranging from small organic ions to macromolecular protein complexes and DNA. While combining some of the most robust aspects of traditional electrophoresis, chromatography, and capillary technology, recent CE research and development has focused on avenues leading to improving detection and understanding and employing the basic chemistry of CE vis-a-vis new applications.

Soft Lithography in Biology and Biochemistry

“…Capillary electrophoresis (CE) was the first separation technique used in miniaturized analytical systems. The commercially available CE instruments already in use, with small (50-µm inner diameter) capillaries to separate proteins and DNA, were prime candidates for miniaturization into more compact systems (193)(194)(195). The first miniaturized CE system fabricated in PDMS, developed by Effenhauser et al (196)(197)(198), was used to separate DNA fragments.…”

An improved process for separation of proteins using modified chitosan–silica cross-linked charged ultrafilter membranes under coupled driving forces: Isoelectric separation of proteins

“…Many processes with electric gradient as driving force such as electrophoresis, gel electrophoresis, capillary electrophoresis, etc. [27][28][29] were also developed for commercial practice of protein separation. In all these processes, either pressure or electric gradient was imposed to achieve protein separation.…”

Flow through PCR module of BioBriefcase

“…The large surface to volume ratio of the capillary permits higher electric fields that result in efficient and rapid separation of products. [29] Some groups have used non-crosslinked polymer-filled capillaries for restriction fragment analysis [30] and DNA sequencing [31][32][33]. This technology allows replacement of separation matrix after each run permitting more runs per capillary, automation, and easier usage.…”