Mosaic microcolumns, slabs, and separation media for electrophoresis and chromatography

Abstract

A method and compositions for separating molecules based on molecular size, shape, affinity, chirality, weight, charge, and hydrogen bonding, using a mosaic matrix formed by polymerizing a dispersion of dispersoids within a polymeric matrix. The dispersoids and matrix can be of the same or different hydrophobicity or hydrophilicity. The dispersoids can be porous or non-porous. The mosaic matrix can be used with existing chromatographic and electrophoresis apparatus to effect an enhanced separation of molecules, particularly of nucleic acids and peptides, by application of a solution and/or an electrical field to the matrix. The solution can form a pH, ionic, or composition gradient, and be applied using gravity or under pressure. The electrical field can be continuous, pulsed, or two-dimensional.

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