Learning Materials
Features
Discover
Aqueous two-phase systems (ATPS) are a liquid-liquid extraction method, primarily used for the separation and purification of biomolecules, where two immiscible aqueous solutions form distinct phases. This method is highly effective, utilizing differences in polymer concentrations, salt concentrations, or pH levels for partitioning target compounds like proteins and nucleic acids. By optimizing these conditions, ATPS offers a gentle, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional organic solvent extraction techniques.
Millions of flashcards designed to help you ace your studies
Sign up for freeWhat scientific principle is crucial in the formation of ATPS?
What key factor can researchers manipulate to enhance separation efficiency in ATPS?
What is the primary objective of using aqueous two-phase systems (ATPS)?
What does the partition coefficient \( K \) in ATPS represent?
What factors influence solute partitioning in an ATPS?
What is an Aqueous Two-Phase System (ATPS)?
Why are Aqueous Two-Phase Systems (ATPS) advantageous in engineering applications?
In an ATPS involving polyethylene glycol (PEG) and dextran, what happens when they are mixed in water?
Which factor is crucial in selecting an appropriate ATPS protocol?
How is the Gibbs Free Energy of Partitioning calculated?
How does separation occur in an aqueous polymer two-phase system?
What scientific principle is crucial in the formation of ATPS?
What key factor can researchers manipulate to enhance separation efficiency in ATPS?
What is the primary objective of using aqueous two-phase systems (ATPS)?
What does the partition coefficient \( K \) in ATPS represent?
What factors influence solute partitioning in an ATPS?
What is an Aqueous Two-Phase System (ATPS)?
Why are Aqueous Two-Phase Systems (ATPS) advantageous in engineering applications?
In an ATPS involving polyethylene glycol (PEG) and dextran, what happens when they are mixed in water?
Which factor is crucial in selecting an appropriate ATPS protocol?
How is the Gibbs Free Energy of Partitioning calculated?
How does separation occur in an aqueous polymer two-phase system?
Achieve better grades quicker with Premium
Geld-zurück-Garantie, wenn du durch die Prüfung fällst
Did you know that StudySmarter supports you beyond learning?
Review generated flashcards
Start learning or create your own AI flashcards
Team aqueous two-phase systems Teachers
Aqueous two-phase systems (ATPS) are fascinating chemical systems widely applied in both scientific research and industrial processes. Understanding their mechanism and potential benefits can be an enriching subject for any student interested in engineering and chemistry. Let's delve into what ATPS are and how they function.
Aqueous Two-Phase Systems (ATPS) are formed when two water-soluble polymers or a polymer and a salt are combined in water to create two immiscible liquid phases. These systems leverage the differential affinity of substances for each phase, facilitating the separation and purification of biomolecules.
In practice, ATPS are composed of water's unique characteristic to maintain multiple liquid phases despite both components being highly soluble in water. This phenomenon occurs due to the exclusion interactions that arise when certain concentrations of polymers or salts are mixed.
A common example of an ATPS is the combination of polyethylene glycol (PEG) and dextran in water. When mixed, these two polymers attract water molecules differently, leading to the formation of two distinct phases: one rich in PEG and the other rich in dextran.
In ATPS formation, the balance of hydrophilic forces plays a crucial role in phase separation.
The science behind ATPS involves various physicochemical principles. One fundamental aspect is the Flory-Huggins interaction parameter, denoted as \(\
Aqueous two-phase systems (ATPS) are critical in the separation and purification of a wide array of biomolecules. They are versatile and play an essential role in both laboratory research and industrial applications.
When working with ATPS, it's crucial to understand the methodologies involved in creating and utilizing these systems. The primary objective is to harness the physical properties of the polymers or salts involved to effectively separate components based on their affinity to each phase.
Let's dive into the concept of the partition coefficient, denoted as \( K \). It represents the ratio of concentrations of a solute in the two phases. Mathematically, it is expressed as: \[ K = \frac{{C_{\text{top}}}}{{C_{\text{bottom}}}} \] where \( C_{\text{top}} \) is the concentration in the top phase and \( C_{\text{bottom}} \) is the concentration in the bottom phase. This coefficient helps determine which phase a solute will preferentially partition into, influencing the effectiveness of the separation.
Choosing the right ATPS protocol involves considering several factors such as the concentration of polymers/salts, temperature, and pH. Here's a brief guide to help you choose the appropriate protocol:
As an example, consider the separation of bovine serum albumin (BSA) using a PEG-dextran system. Under optimal conditions, BSA will preferentially partition into the dextran-rich phase facilitating its separation:
| Component | PEG Phase | Dextran Phase |
| BSA | Low Concentration | High Concentration |
A small change in polymer concentration can lead to significant changes in phase behavior, making experimental calibration critical.
The aqueous two-phase extraction system technique is an efficient method utilized in separating and purifying biomolecules, cells, and organelles. By exploiting the distinct partitioning behavior of solutes in two immiscible aqueous phases, this technique provides an excellent alternative to conventional methods such as chromatography.
At the core of this extraction method lies the partitioning of components between two phases. When two polymers or a polymer and a salt are mixed in water, they create two layers despite their individual water solubility. Solutes distribute between these phases based on their solubility and interactions with the components of each phase.
Understanding the Gibbs Free Energy of Partitioning is essential. The partitioning process is driven by the change in Gibbs free energy, \( \Delta G \), which can be determined by: \[ \Delta G = -RT \ln(K) \] where \( R \) is the gas constant, \( T \) is the temperature, and \( K \) is the partition coefficient. This equation highlights the relationship between partitioning behavior and thermodynamic properties of the system, offering insights into why certain solutes prefer one phase over another.
An example of the ATPS in action is the separation of proteins using a PEG-phosphate system. The proteins will naturally partition between the PEG-rich top phase and the phosphate-rich bottom phase. For instance,
| Protein Type | PEG Phase | Phosphate Phase |
| Albumin | Moderate Concentration | High Concentration |
| Globulin | High Concentration | Moderate Concentration |
Several factors affect the partitioning of solutes within an ATPS. Understanding these factors is crucial for optimizing the separation process. Here are key considerations:
The inclusion of additives can also mitigate challenges in phase separation, such as boosting the clarity of phase boundaries.
Aqueous Two-Phase Systems (ATPS) are increasingly applied in various engineering fields due to their efficiency in separating and purifying biomolecules. These applications benefit from the simplicity, effectiveness, and scalability of ATPS as a separation technique.
In an aqueous polymer two-phase system, two polymers are mixed in water resulting in phase separation. This separation occurs because of the incompatibility between the polymers at a specific concentration and temperature, making it valuable for the biochemical and pharmaceutical industries.
Aqueous Polymer Two Phase Systems are an ATPS variant formed by mixing two water-soluble polymers that separate into distinct phases due to their respective affinities and molecular weights.
These systems excel at separating biological macromolecules such as proteins and nucleic acids. For example, when working with proteins, the partition coefficient \( K \) becomes an essential parameter, which can be calculated using the formula: \[ K = \frac{{C_{\text{polymer\,A}}}}{{C_{\text{polymer\,B}}}} \] where \( C_{\text{polymer\,A}} \) and \( C_{\text{polymer\,B}} \) are the concentrations of the solute in each polymer phase.
Consider an ATPS composed of polyethylene glycol (PEG) and dextran. Proteins would partition between these two phases as:
| Phase | Component Concentration |
| PEG-rich | Low protein concentration |
| Dextran-rich | High protein concentration |
Temperature and pH adjustments can significantly influence polymer solubility, thereby altering the system's phase properties.
The advances in ATPS techniques have amplified their utility, making them more efficient for various biochemical applications. Research and technological innovations continue to refine these processes, enhancing separation capabilities and making ATPS more environmentally friendly.
Recent studies have focused on manipulating electrostatic interactions within ATPS. By adjusting the ionic strength and electronegativity, researchers can fine-tune phase properties to improve separation efficiency. The theoretical foundation for such adjustments can be modeled using the equation for electrostatic potential energy \( U \): \[ U = \frac{{kQ_1Q_2}}{{r}} \] where \( k \) is Coulomb's constant, \( Q_1 \) and \( Q_2 \) are the charges, and \( r \) is the distance between charged phases. Such insights propel ATPS towards more targeted and effective applications in engineering.
Utilizing computational modeling helps predict and optimize ATPS behavior under varying conditions.
Sign up for free to gain access to all our flashcards.
At StudySmarter, we have created a learning platform that serves millions of students. Meet the people who work hard to deliver fact based content as well as making sure it is verified.
Lily Hulatt is a Digital Content Specialist with over three years of experience in content strategy and curriculum design. She gained her PhD in English Literature from Durham University in 2022, taught in Durham University’s English Studies Department, and has contributed to a number of publications. Lily specialises in English Literature, English Language, History, and Philosophy.
Get to know Lily
Gabriel Freitas is an AI Engineer with a solid experience in software development, machine learning algorithms, and generative AI, including large language models’ (LLMs) applications. Graduated in Electrical Engineering at the University of São Paulo, he is currently pursuing an MSc in Computer Engineering at the University of Campinas, specializing in machine learning topics. Gabriel has a strong background in software engineering and has worked on projects involving computer vision, embedded AI, and LLM applications.
Get to know Gabriel
StudySmarter is a globally recognized educational technology company, offering a holistic learning platform designed for students of all ages and educational levels. Our platform provides learning support for a wide range of subjects, including STEM, Social Sciences, and Languages and also helps students to successfully master various tests and exams worldwide, such as GCSE, A Level, SAT, ACT, Abitur, and more. We offer an extensive library of learning materials, including interactive flashcards, comprehensive textbook solutions, and detailed explanations. The cutting-edge technology and tools we provide help students create their own learning materials. StudySmarter’s content is not only expert-verified but also regularly updated to ensure accuracy and relevance.
Learn moreSave explanations to your personalised space and access them anytime, anywhere!
Sign up with Email Sign up with AppleBy signing up, you agree to the Terms and Conditions and the Privacy Policy of StudySmarter.
Already have an account? Log in
Sign up to highlight and take notes. It’s 100% free.
Explanations 
Flashcards 
StudySmarter AI 
Notes 
Study Plans 
Study Sets 
Exams 
Find a job 
Student Deals 
Magazine 
Mobile App 
