In this paper, the application of monolithic columns for downstream process
ing of different clotting factor IX concentrates is shown. Determination of
basic chromatographic conditions as well as investigations on the regenera
tion of disk- and tube-shaped monolithic columns using human serum albumin
as a model protein, were performed. Separation of factor IX and vitronectin
, a possible impurity in commercial factor IX concentrates was accomplished
using disk-shaped monolithic columns. These same applications were also ca
rried out with identical results on up-scaled tube-shaped monolithic column
s. Since these media allow very fast separations, this method can be succes
sfully applied not only to an in-process control of the purification of fac
tor IX but also to other biopolymers from human plasma. Besides, the same a
pplication on the up-scaled tube-shaped monolithic column was successfully
carried out. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.