Extraction of Proteins with ABS

Abstract

Over the past years, there has been an increasing trend in research on the extraction and purification of proteins using aqueous biphasic systems (ABS) formed by polymers, e.g., polyethylene glycol (PEG). In general, when dealing with protein purification processes, it is essential to maintain their native structure and functional stability. In this context, ABS, liquid-liquid systems where both phases are water-rich, provide a biocompatible medium for such attempts. More recently, it was shown that the versatility offered by ABS is further enhanced by the introduction of ionic liquids (ILs) as alternative phase-forming components. This chapter describes and highlights the current progress on the field of protein extraction and purification using IL-based ABS. The general approach for protein extraction using IL-based ABS and factors influencing the partitioning are discussed. In addition, the challenges to overcome the use of IL-based ABS for protein extraction are also presented.