Factors affecting endotoxin removal from aqueous solutions by ultrafiltration process

Abstract

This study presents factors affecting endotoxin removal from bacterial cells homogenates with ultrafiltration process. Endotoxin removal was more efficient at low protein concentrations (3 mg/ml) compared to high protein concentrations (30 mg/ml). Efficiency increased from 28.9% in undiluted sample to 99.8% in diluted samples (1:256). Highest removal efficiency of endotoxin occurred at pH 7-8. In presence of different detergents (0.5% Tween 20, 1% Triton X-100, 1% Triton X-114, and 1% taurodeoxycholate), endotoxin removal was more efficient at diluted samples compared to undiluted samples. Polysulfone membrane represent an efficient method in reducing endotoxin from solutions containing biomolecules.