Monomeric Polypeptide Separation via Mixed-Mode Chromatography

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for purifying polypeptide solutions with high aggregate content, such as those containing over 20% aggregates, often require multiple chromatography steps, which can compromise recovery and efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A method involving a combination of two chromatography steps: a mixed-mode cation exchange chromatography step followed by a weak cation exchange chromatography step, operated at pH values above the isoelectric point of the polypeptide, to effectively separate monomeric from aggregated forms of polypeptides, improving aggregate removal and recovery.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If multiple chromatography steps are used to purify polypeptide solutions with high aggregate content, then aggregate removal is improved, but recovery and efficiency deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaggregate removalVSAvoidrecovery and efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The purification process is divided into two distinct chromatography steps with different mechanisms: mixed-mode cation exchange chromatography followed by weak cation exchange chromatography. Each step targets different aspects of aggregate removal, allowing effective purification while maintaining recovery through optimized step-specific conditions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The method utilizes pH values above the isoelectric point of the polypeptide to optimize charge states for effective separation. This parameter change enables the polypeptide to interact differently with the chromatography media in each step, improving aggregate removal while preserving monomeric recovery

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Manufacturing precision

If multiple chromatography steps are used to purify polypeptide solutions, then aggregate removal is improved, but process complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaggregate removalVSAvoidprocess complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The method combines two chromatography steps with different mechanisms (mixed-mode and weak cation exchange) into a sequential process. This merging approach achieves superior aggregate removal that would be difficult with a single step, while the systematic combination keeps the overall process manageable and scalable

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Manufacturing precision

If pH values above the isoelectric point are used, then separation of monomeric from aggregated forms is improved, but charge-based interactions change

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveseparation efficiencyVSAvoidcharge-based interactions
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The method deliberately operates at pH values above the isoelectric point to optimize the charge state of the polypeptide for separation. This parameter change enhances the differentiation between monomeric and aggregated forms through charge-based interactions with the chromatography media, improving separation efficiency while maintaining reliable binding through controlled electrostatic interactions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This approach allows for efficient removal of aggregates while maintaining high recovery rates, making it suitable for sterile manufacturing and scalable processes with reduced costs and environmental impact.

Implementation Method 1

The purification is achieved by a combination of only two chromatography steps, for example a combination of a first mixed-mode cation exchange chromatography step and a second cation exchange chromatography step

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectIon exchange: Ion Exchange

Data Source

PatentUS11168110B2Method for separation of monomeric polypeptides from aggregated polypeptides
Publication Date: 2021.11.09 F HOFFMANN LA ROCHE INC
  • US11168110B2 patent drawing
  • US11168110B2 patent drawing
  • US11168110B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Herein is reported a method for obtaining a polypeptide in monomeric form comprising the steps of a) providing a solution comprising the polypeptide in monomeric form and in aggregated form, wherein the ratio of monomeric to aggregated form is 4:1 or less as determined by size exclusion chromatography, b) performing a mixed-mode chromatography in bind-and-elute mode, or a hydrophobic interaction chromatography in flow-through mode, or a size-exclusion chromatography, and c) performing a weak cation exchange chromatography in bind-and-elute mode or flow-through mode, and thereby obtaining the polypeptide in monomeric form.