Fully automated fraction collection instrument

Project ID: TECH-2023-10

Background

Size exclusion chromatography (SEC) is the preferred method to isolate and purify exosomes and extracellular vesicles. However, this technique is labor-intensive, requiring the operator to pipette samples, buffer, and wash into individual columns. Current solutions attempt to automate fraction collection, but still require the operator to pipette liquids and be present at the machine to instruct it to move to the next stage. Therefore, there is a need for a fully automated fraction collection instrument.

Invention Description

Researchers at the University of Toledo developed a fraction collection instrument that requires no manual intervention. Samples and buffer are loaded onto the machine for automatic withdraw through the injection device and deposited onto the column, nozzle, and sensor assembly, until drops are deposited into a carousel of empty tubes. Precision is achieved by detecting drops of liquid with an IR detector.

Applications

• Exosome purification and isolation
• Precision separation of proteins based on the protein size
• Desalting
• Immobilized Metal Affinity Chromatography (IMAC)

Advantages

• Easy to use; Fully automated and convenient
• Reproducible and precise; reduces potential for pipetting errors
• Multiple runs are possible
• Compatible with 1.5 and 2.0 mL tubes

IP Status:                    Patent pending