Work

Aqueous biphasic systems based on deep eutectic solvents for extraction of biopharmaceuticals in downstream processing

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: • DES-based ABS developed for efficient γ-globulins and monoclonal antibodies extraction. • Sustainable alternative for monoclonal antibodies downstream processing. • DES-based ABS enabled high-efficiency extraction of γ-globulins and rituximab. • Good RTX extraction efficiency from cell culture media using [N 4444 + ][Cl − ] : 3[Gly]-based ABS. The increasing global demand for biopharmaceuticals calls for scalable and cost-efficient purification strategies. Downstream processing remains a major challenge, accounting for up to 80% of total production costs and high solvent-related energy consumption. In this context, the present work investigates aqueous biphasic systems (ABS) based on deep eutectic solvents (DES), to reduce both purification costs and the environmental impact of purification methodologies. A series of DESs composed of tetraalkylammonium-based salts and choline chloride were prepared, characterized, and evaluated for their efficiency in extracting γ-globulins, employed here as monoclonal antibody (mAb) surrogates. The system was validated for rituximab (RTX) extraction in PBS (pH 7.4) with extraction efficiencies > 87.0% and relative standard deviations < 6.4%, demonstrating the accuracy and repeatability of the method. The [N 4444 + ][Cl − ] : 3[Gly]-based ABS also enabled efficient RTX extraction directly from cell culture media, highlighting the DES-based ABS potential as a sustainable alternative for downstream biopharmaceutical purification.

Source: Journal of Chromatography A

DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2025.466514

Authors: Diana R. Cunha, Shu-An Hsieh, M. Beatriz Quinaz, Marcela A. Segundo, Jared L. Anderson

Institutions: Universidade do Porto, Rede de Química e Tecnologia, Iowa State University, Ames National Laboratory

Language: English

Topic: Chemical and Physical Properties in Aqueous Solutions

Subfield: Filtration and Separation

Field: Chemical Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,040