Sample preparation

When fewer proteins are needed for functional or structural analysis, the first step is to break up the cells and extract the relevant solid protein fractions. This step is very important because processing methods using mechanical, chemical or enzymatic treatment methods may affect the integrity and activity of the needed protein, or otherwise cause protein degradation. Merck offers a full range of reagents and enzymes for breaking up the cells and protein elution.

Affinity purification is based on the specific interaction that occurs when the necessary molecule is treated with an immobilized ligand. Merck offers a range of instruments for affinity recombinant protein purification, antibody purification, nucleic acid purification, protein-protein interaction analysis and albumin/IgG separation from blood serum or plasma. You will perform protein purification very easily and quickly using PureProteome™ magnetic particle systems, featuring a small amount of non-specific links and minimal sample loss. Conventional protein purification methods require fine particle centrifugation, followed by the loss of part of the sample. Magnetic particles are isolated in a magnetic state, allowing complete separation of the buffer without losing the sample.

When preparing a protein sample for downstream analysis, such as activity or structural analysis, the last step is to ensure that the protein stays in its original state, in soluble form, dissolved in the selected buffer and of the appropriate concentration. Merck membrane technology, including tangential flow filtration (TFF) based on separation, allows for quick and easy protein concentration, desalting and buffer change. In order to carry out the restoration protein analysis, you need to purify proteins so that they are non-denatured, do not lose their enzymatic activity and other necessary functions. We offer several quick and simple ways of filtration to facilitate protein concentration and fractionation.

The D-Tube™ dialyzer is used for quick and a gentle dialysis of complex and sensitive protein samples. The D-Tube™ dialyzer has double membranes, so the sample can be spread across a large area and ​​dialysis can be completed in just 2-5 hours. Amicon® Ultra centrifugal devices are used for diafiltration. The Amicon® Ultra is ideal for the removal of salts, sugars, nucleotides and solvents (other than water-based), as well as other substances with a low molecular weight.