Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more on what Sterlitech Corporation has to offer. Find answers to your questions about our filtration products here!
Ultrafiltration FAQ
How can I maximize my protein concentration and protein recovery?
To maximize protein concentration and recovery, match your membrane, MWCO, and device to your protein type. Consider sample properties, membrane material (PES, RC, CTA, HY), and choose a MWCO ~⅓ of target size. Optimize device design, pre-treat to reduce non-specific binding, and use dead-stop pockets or pre-filled filtrate tubes for maximum sample retrieval.
Which ultrafiltration method is best suited for virus concentration?
For virus concentration, use a MWCO ~⅓ of the target’s molecular weight (or match pore size to diameter). For Lentivirus (~90 nm), a 300 kDa Hydrosart® membrane offers the best balance of speed and recovery, with 100 kDa PES as a slower alternative. Always validate device, membrane, and MWCO for your specific virus.
How can I reduce protein degradation during concentration?
To reduce protein degradation, optimize buffer composition and minimize shear stress—e.g., use lower centrifuge speeds for linear proteins and devices with membrane areas suited to your starting volume. Vivaflow® crossflow devices minimize shear compared to centrifugal or stirred cell systems, and diafiltration tools like the Vivaflow® reservoir help maintain optimal buffer conditions during concentration.
What’s the best way to concentrate large sample volumes in one go?
Vivaflow® crossflow devices offer a fast, cost-effective way to concentrate 0.1–5 L samples without large-scale systems. With PES or Hydrosart® membranes and single-use or reusable options, they can achieve up to 50× concentration—1 L in ~30 min or 5 L in <75 min—with near-total recovery after a single buffer rinse.
