The affinity chromatography experiment

The typical affinity chromatography experiment consists of three phases as illustrated below:

. Explanation to the symbols
	Symbolic representation of a section of an affinity chromatography bead surface. .
Affinity ligand	Sample molecules with no affinity for the ligand	Target sample molecule with full affinity for the ligand
1. Equilibration The column is conditioned to promote adsorption of the target molecule by equilibrating it with binding buffer.	2. Sample application and wash The sample is applied under binding conditions. The target molecule binds specifically to the affinity ligands, while all other sample components are washed through.	3. Elution The target molecule is desorbed and eluted by switching to elution buffer.