Question

Describe the methods for separating macromolecules on the basis of their size, charge, solubility and molecular affinity. (10 MARKS)

Answer 1

Answer:
1) Molecular size: gel filtration chromatography (proteins less soluble in solutions containing high
salt than in solutions with low salt content, so that the protein mixture can potentially be separated
by adding a large amount of salt);
2) Solubility: evaporation (macromolecules interact both positively and with negatively charged
stationary phases);
3) Molecular affinity: affinity chromatography (a chromatographic column is installed for which the
stationary phase contains a functional group that interacts with an interesting protein).