The invention provides extraction columns for the purification of an
analyte (e.g., a biological macromolecule, such as a peptide, protein or
nucleic acid) from a sample solution, as well as methods for making and
using such columns. The columns typically include a bed of extraction
media positioned in the column, often between two frits. In some
embodiments, the extraction columns employ modified pipette tips as
column bodies. In some embodiments, the invention provides methods
characterized by the use of hydrophobic and/or hydrophilic membranes as
frits, and/or by the inclusion of a wad of fibrous material to act as a
wicking agent.