A process for separating a protein from a sample containing a mixture of
proteins is disclosed. The process comprises forming an aqueous
combination comprising the sample and an ion exchange material at a pH
which is less than the pI of a first fraction of the proteins in the
aqueous dispersion but greater than the pI of a second fraction of the
proteins in the aqueous dispersion. The aqueous dispersion may then be
intensely mixed, causing a fraction of the proteins in the combination to
bind to the ion exchange material, and, optionally, centrifuged, causing
the combination to stratify into a concentrated solids fraction and a
supernatant, the supernatant containing the fraction of the proteins that
did not bind to the ion exchange material. This process, including the
steps of intense mixing and centrifugation, requires no expensive,
specialized instrumentation, can be quickly performed, and is carried out
in non-denaturing conditions, allowing for the separated proteins to be
further studied.