CAPILLARY ELECTROPHORESIS - A VERSATILE FAMILY OF ANALYTICAL TECHNIQUES

Capillary electrophoresis is a sensitive and versatile technique which has emerged over the past 10 years into the forefront of analytical m ethodology. Its applicability is enhanced by short separation times, f acile and rapid methods of development and a requirement for very smal l amounts of analyte. This article reviews basic principles behind the technique and the range of options which allow the same instrument to be used for the separation and analysis of a wide range of analytes f rom large biomolecules, such as proteins and nucleic acids, to metal a nd organic ions while having the capability to resolve enantiomers and non-charged molecules.