Segmented field OFFGEL® electrophoresis.

A multielectrode setup for protein OFFGEL electrophoresis that significantly improves protein separation efficiency has been developed. Here, the electric field is applied by segments between seven electrodes connected in series to six independent power supplies. The aim of this strategy is to distribute evenly the electric field along the multiwell system, and as a consequence to enhance electrophoresis in terms of separation time, resolution, and protein collection efficiency, while minimizing the overall potential difference and therefore the Joule heating. The performances were compared to a standard two-electrode setup for OFFGEL fractionation of a protein mixture, using UV-Vis spectroscopy for quantification and MALDI-MS for identification. The electrophoretic separation process was simulated, and optimized by solving the time-dependent Nernst-Planck differential equation.