A method to purify proteins with light: Gentler and more efficient than previous procedures

Proteins play a key role in the life sciences -- from basic research and biotechnological applications to the development and manufacturing of pharmaceuticals. Scientists have developed a method that relies on physics rather than conventional chemistry to obtain the proteins that are needed for this purpose. Using short-wave, UV light invisible to humans, they have succeeded in purifying proteins from cell extracts or cultures. This technique is more efficient and gentler than previous methods.