Systems and methods for high gradient magnetic separation of biological material

Abstract

Described herein are methods for purification of biological material using high gradient magnetic separation. For example, a method includes: providing a ferromagnetic matrix surrounded by a separation column, the separation column including an elongate body defining a lumen having an inlet and an outlet; applying an external magnetic field to the separation column; saturating unspecific binding sites in the ferromagnetic matrix by applying a buffer solution to the ferromagnetic matrix; and introducing biological material into the lumen of the separation column. In some embodiments, the ferromagnetic matrix is uncoated, and the buffer solution includes at least one macromolecule. In some embodiments, the method further includes incubating the ferromagnetic matrix with the buffer solution for at least three minutes to equilibrate the ferromagnetic matrix.