Selective separation method of aggregates from IgG solution by aqueous two-phase system.

Aggregation of immunoglobulin G (IgG) is a serious concern that results in immunogenicity in pharmaceutical applications. Removal of the small and soluble aggregates in protein solutions through a simple method remains challenging. Here we show that an aqueous two-phase system (ATPS) can be used for the elimination of soluble aggregates from IgG solution. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) and dextran (DEX) were selected as components of the ATPS. As expected, IgG monomers were partitioned into the top or bottom phases of ATPS. Interestingly, almost all the small and soluble aggregates of IgG were extracted to the interface between top and bottom phases, rather than in the liquid phases. The partitioning of monomers and aggregates of IgG can be attributed to the solubility of these protein states in PEG and DEX. Thus, ATPS using PEG and DEX can be employed for the simple removal method of soluble aggregates from IgG solution.