BB1210 Purification of Biomolecules 6.0 credits

The course gives a theoretical and practical orientation of the methods used for purification of biomolecules (proteins, nucleic acid, metabolites etc.). General knowledge of the main steps in a purification process, from handling of biological samples and cell lysis, via the most common separation methods, to concentration and storage of final sample, is included. Basic experimental design will also be treated. The course contains both theoretical and practical parts.

The following methods will be covered in the course:

• Cell lysis
• Centrifugation
• Filtration
• Precipitation
• Chromatography (gel-filtration, ion exchange, hydrophobic interactions, affinity etc.)
• Buffer exchange, concentration and storage

After completion of the course the student shall have

Knowledge and understanding to:

• Account for, describe and give examples of common methods for purification of biomolecules. (TEN1)
• Apply methods for purification of biomolecules. (LAB1)
• Perform a chromatographic experiment for purification of a biomolecule, calculate the obtained yield and suggest improvements. (LAB1)

Skills and abilities to:

• Plan an efficient process for purification of a biomolecule (LAB1)
• Report orally and in writing within the subject (LAB1)

Values and approaches to 

• Critically evaluate a presentation of an experiment and give constructive feedback. (LAB1)

For higher grades (A-D) the student shall also be able to

• Compare and pan complex experiments for purification of biomolecules. (TEN1)

Completed course BB1150 Biochemistry 1.

BB1150 Biochemistry, BB1030 Microbiology,BB1160 Eucaryotic Cell Biology, BB1190 Gene Technology, or equivalent courses.

If the course is discontinued, students may request to be examined during the following two academic years.

• LAB1 - Laboratory Work, 3.0 credits, grading scale: P, F
• TEN1 - Written exam, 3.0 credits, grading scale: A, B, C, D, E, FX, F

Based on recommendation from KTH’s coordinator for disabilities, the examiner will decide how to adapt an examination for students with documented disability.

The examiner may apply another examination format when re-examining individual students.

My Hedhammar

• All members of a group are responsible for the group's work.
• In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used.
• In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.

Further information about the course can be found on the Course web at the link below. Information on the Course web will later be moved to this site.

Overlaps with the course BB1130-Analysis and Purification of Biomolecules