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Free Flow Electrophoresis - FFE

FFE is a matrix-free electrophoretic separation technique for separating a broad range of analytes ranging in molecular weight from metal ions to whole cells, according to minimal differences in charge and isoelectric point with high reproducibility. During FFE, charged particles are separated after injection between two parallel plates filled with a thin laminar film of aqueous separation buffers. After applying an electric field perpendicular to the flow direction, the analytes are deflected towards charged sample components according to their mobility and isoelectric point.

Schematic overview of the FFE device: Analytes loaded into the sample inlet are transported by a longitudinal flow and separated in a vertical electric field. The migration speed of the specific analytes within the electric field depends on their isoelectric points and pH values of the separation buffers in the separation area. After separation, the different analyses are focused on by a counterflow and adjusted to a neutral pH using a corresponding buffer. Through tubes connected with the separation chamber, the analytes are collected in a 96-well plate and the cavities.

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