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 Location: Protein Purification - Laboratory research > Education Centre > LC techniques > Hydrophobic interaction chromatography
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Hydrophobic interaction chromatography
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Hydrophobic interaction chromatography

The technique of hydrophobic interaction chromatography (HIC) is a technique for the purification and separation of biomolecules based on differences in their surface hydrophobicity. Hydrophobic interaction chromatography techniques have been used as a part of protein purification strategies in combination with other chromatographic techniques such as gel filtration and ion exchange chromatography, as well as an analytical tool for the detection of protein conformational changes. Many biomolecules, generally considered to be hydrophilic, also have sufficient numbers of hydrophobic groups allowing interaction with hydrophobic ligands coupled to the chromatographic matrix. While hydrophobic interaction chromatography and reversed phase chromatography are closely related techniques, adsorbents for reversed phase chromatography are more highly substituted with hydrophobic ligands than hydrophobic interaction chromatography adsorbents. This feature allows the use of mild elution conditions to help maintain the biological activity of the sample.

GE Healthcare provides a broad selection of high quality, high resolution hydrophobic interaction chromatography media together with the appropriate hydrophobic interaction chromatography columns. Media are available prepacked in columns, or as bulk media for packing your own columns. For screening to determine the appropriate ligand and experimental conditions required for your particular application, the HiTrap™ HIC selection kit is recommended.

To help you select the media required for your particular application, please consult the animation, selection guide, handbook, FAQ's, and education centre on these pages. If you cannot find the products you require on these pages, please contact us for a personal consultation with the experts in chromatography columns and media.