Purification of lysozyme by microporous PVDF membrane-based chromatographic process

Microporous and macroporous membranes can be used to carry out chromatographic separation processes, thereby overcoming some of the limitations associated with packed bed columns. A commercially available polyvinylidine fluoride (PVDF) membrane was identified which could selectively bind lysozyme by a cation exchange mechanism. The PVDF membrane used was reported to be resistant to a wide variety of organic solvents, acids and bases, and could be sterilised by heat. The purification of lysozyme from chicken egg white (CEW) was carried out using this membrane. Based on this, a robust and reproducible process for manufacturing lysozyme could potentially be developed.