Bioseparation, Magnetic Particle Adsorbents

Downstream processing using magnetic adsorbent particles, so called magnetic beads, is a promising technology for future bioseparation challenges for high-value as well as for mid-priced products. Magnetic adsorbent based separation currently applies the same ligand technologies as chromatographic separation.

After binding, magnetic forces are used for the separation of protein loaded beads from crude bio suspensions. The concept has been proven in many proof of principle examples but few pilot scale processes, due to two main hurdles: Improved, cheaper magnetic adsorbents are required, as are improved magnetic separators.

This review examines where magnetic bead based separations can fit into a downstream process before studying several state of the art synthesis processes for magnetic beads and their magnetic and sorptive properties. An overview of magnetic separator technology is given with special focus on bioprocessing.

Examples of the separation and purification of proteins applying magnetic beads to a biosuspension is shown.