Millipore has introduced two tangential flow filtration (TFF) products that allow researchers to easily and efficiently purify large volumes of protein-containing solutions. The applications of these products include concentrating and desalting proteins from cell culture supernatants and fermentation broths. The high flux, low binding Millipore membranes used in these devices provide high protein retention and recovery.

Pellicon XL devices are available with a choice of either Durapore PVDF membrane (microporous), Ultracel regenerated cellulose membrane (ultrafiltration) or Biomax polyehtersulfone membrane (UF), and membranes for concentrating and desalting from 100 millilitres to 2 litres of protein-containing solution. Compared to large stirred cell systems, Pellicon XL devices offer better flow rates with less processing time. Additionally, the devices can be docked with the Labscale TFF pump system from Millipore without the need for tubing or clamps.

Pellicon 2 mini-cassettes are available with either regenerated cellulose, or polyethersulfone membranes for processing up to 10 litres of protein-containing solution. Larger cassette systems are available for processing 250 litres of solution.

Tangential flow filtration systems are designed specifically for filtering larger volumes of solution. In traditional filtration systems, fluid is directed toward the membrane with applied pressure. When processing larger volumes, retained molecules can build-up on the surface of the membrane and slow down or block filtration. In TFF, fluid is pumped tangentially along the surface of the membrane. An applied pressure forces smaller molecules through the membrane, while larger molecules are swept along the surface of the membrane, which prevents the membrane from fouling.

Pellicon, Durapore, Ultracel, Biomax and Millipore are registered trademarks of Millipore Corporation.

Millipore’s bioscience division delivers complete solutions and services for pharmaceutical, academic, life science, clinical and government research laboratories.