Automated production scale affinity purification of monoclonal antibodies

This paper describes the use of automation to improve the efficiency of affinity chromatography as a production technique. The use of automation in development of affinity processes is described together with an analysis of the benefits of automating production systems. The paper considers what factors are important in achieving an efficient affinity process on a production scale. The discussion is supported with data illustrating the use of immobilised Protein A to purify large quantities of monoclonal antibody from cell culture. The paper concludes with a brief discussion of possible future developments and extensions of automation in affinity processes.