Sample concentration and buffer exchange are processes integral to the preparative-scale production of biomolecules. Concentration reduces sample volume, facilitating more efficient processing, while buffer exchange ensures biomolecule stability, activity, and compatibility with subsequent operations. These steps are often required between purification stages or at the end of the production workflow for the final formulation of purified molecules, contributing significantly to the overall processing time.
Here we present the µPulse, one of the smallest available devices of its kind, intended specifically for lab-scale purifications. The µPulse has all the components of a TFF system with the fluid path miniaturized on a filter chip by combining the microfluidic pumping technology with TFF. This has made it well-suited for processing low volumes. Furthermore, the instrument has a small footprint and can be easily adjusted in any lab setting.
Unlike centrifuges with traditional dead-end filtration systems, the µPulse prevents a high concentration gradient from forming at the filtration membrane. This means no reduction in the permeate flow rate and increased sample recovery. The concentration process is continuous and gradual, allowing for samples to be concentrated 4x faster than dead-end filtration.