An improved chromatographic method for the separation of egg yolk IgG into subpopulations utilizing immobilized metal ion (Fe3+) affinity chromatography.

An improved methodology is described for the separation of yolk IgG into subpopulations using immobilized metal ion (Fe3+) affinity chromatography. The yolk IgG was first extracted using a prechilled, pre-acidified method. After extraction, the yolk IgG was then fractionated using an Fe3+ column. Using an ascending pH gradient, four IgG containing peaks were well resolved based upon the elution pH, specific activity and the relative avidity index.