Protein separation using membrane chromatography: opportunities and challenges

Some of the problems associated with packed bed chromatography can be overcome by using synthetic macroporous and microporous membranes as chromatographic media, This paper reviews the current state of development in the area of membrane chromatographic separation of proteins. The transport phenomenon of membrane chromatography is briefly discussed and work done in this area is reviewed. The various separation chemistries which have been utilised for protein separation, along with different applications, are also reviewed. The technical challenges facing membrane chromatography are highlighted and the scope for future work is discussed. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.