Cytiva AKTA go Protein Purification System

Overview

The Cytiva AKTA go Protein Purification System is a compact, benchtop liquid chromatography platform engineered for precision and reproducibility in routine protein purification workflows. Based on Cytiva’s extensive heritage in Fast Protein Liquid Chromatography (FPLC), the AKTA go implements core principles of low-pressure, high-fidelity gradient elution chromatography—optimized for affinity, ion exchange, size exclusion, and hydrophobic interaction chromatography. Its modular architecture integrates a dual-pump gradient system, real-time multi-parameter monitoring (UV at 280 nm, conductivity, temperature, and pressure), and a robust plunger pump delivering flow rates from 0.01 to 25.00 mL/min with ±2% accuracy across physiologically relevant viscosity ranges (0.7–10 cP). Designed for operation within cold rooms or standard laboratory environments, the system maintains stable performance under refrigerated conditions (4–35 °C), supporting GMP-aligned workflows where thermal consistency and buffer integrity are critical.

Key Features

• Space-optimized footprint: Measuring only 335 × 464 mm, the AKTA go maximizes utilization of limited benchtop or cold cabinet space without compromising system integrity or fluidic performance.
• UNICORN™ software integration: Full native support for UNICORN 7.x enables intuitive method development via drag-and-drop workflow editor, real-time instrument control, automated fraction collection triggers, and audit-trail-enabled data logging compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when configured with appropriate user access controls and electronic signature settings.
• Modular valve configuration: Standard 7-port valve manifold supports up to three buffer inlets, one sample loop, and three outlet paths—including dedicated waste, column, and fraction collector routing—enabling flexible method sequencing and column regeneration protocols.
• High-fidelity detection suite: LED-based UV monitor calibrated at 280 nm (±1 nm tolerance) with 2 mm path-length flow cell (5 mm optional), linear response from 0–2 AU (±5%), and noise < 0.1 mAU; integrated conductivity sensor (0.01–999.99 mS/cm, ±0.01 mS/cm or ±2% accuracy) and temperature probe (±1.5 °C from 4–35 °C).
• Gradient precision engineering: Valve-switched gradient formation ensures ±2% B-composition accuracy over 2–98% B range at flow rates of 0.5–20 mL/min and viscosities up to 2 cP; gradient linearity maintained at ±1% over 10–85% B for volumes ≥20 mL.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The AKTA go is validated for use with Cytiva’s full portfolio of prepacked chromatography columns—including HiTrap™, HiPrep™, HiScreen™, HiLoad™, and Tricorn™ formats—covering analytical to semi-preparative scales (microgram to hundreds of milligrams of target protein). Column compatibility extends to all major resin chemistries (e.g., Ni-NTA, Protein A, Q Sepharose, Superdex, Phenyl HP) and supports ISO 13485-aligned manufacturing processes when deployed in regulated environments. System hardware and UNICORN software support GLP/GMP documentation standards, including secure user authentication, method versioning, electronic batch records, and time-stamped audit trails. All fluidic components are constructed from biocompatible, low-binding materials (e.g., PEEK, stainless steel, fused silica) certified for repeated exposure to common purification buffers (e.g., imidazole, guanidine HCl, arginine, low-pH glycine).

Software & Data Management

UNICORN software serves as the central interface for method design, execution, and post-run analysis. Its graphical workflow editor allows rapid creation of multi-step purification methods—including equilibration, loading, wash, elution, and regeneration—with real-time visualization of UV, conductivity, and pressure traces. Built-in tools support peak integration, baseline correction, retention time alignment, and export of chromatograms in CSV, PDF, and native .u3d formats. Data security features include role-based access control, password-protected method editing, and configurable audit trail logging that meets ALCOA+ principles (Attributable, Legible, Contemporaneous, Original, Accurate, Complete, Consistent, Enduring, Available). Raw data files are stored in a structured hierarchical directory with immutable timestamps, enabling traceability from raw signal to final purified fraction.

Applications

• Routine purification of His-tagged, GST-tagged, or antibody fragments using immobilized metal affinity chromatography (IMAC) or Protein A resins.
• Buffer exchange and desalting via size-exclusion chromatography (SEC) with HiPrep 26/10 Desalting or HiLoad 16/600 Superdex columns.
• Ion exchange polishing steps (e.g., Q Sepharose FF or SP Sepharose FF) for removal of host cell proteins and aggregates.
• Method development and scalability studies bridging from analytical-scale Tricorn columns to preparative HiLoad systems.
• Teaching laboratories requiring robust, entry-level FPLC instrumentation with standardized training modules and preconfigured methods.

FAQ

Is the AKTA go compatible with non-Cytiva columns?
Yes—the system uses standard 1/16″ tubing connections and supports external column manifolds; however, optimal performance and UNICORN auto-detection features are guaranteed only with Cytiva prepacked columns.
Can UNICORN software be installed on Windows 11?
Yes—UNICORN 7.4 and later versions are fully supported on Windows 10 and Windows 11 (64-bit) with .NET Framework 4.8 and minimum 8 GB RAM.
What is the maximum operating pressure for the UV flow cell?
The U9-L UV monitor is rated for continuous operation up to 2 MPa (20 bar / 290 psi), consistent with typical FPLC pressure profiles.
Does the system support pH monitoring?
pH monitoring is available as an optional add-on module (pH sensor + analog input card); it is not included in the base configuration but integrates seamlessly into UNICORN method logic and real-time plots.
How is system validation handled for regulated environments?
Cytiva provides Installation Qualification (IQ) and Operational Qualification (OQ) documentation templates, along with UNICORN-specific validation guides aligned with ASTM E2500 and ICH Q5A/Q5B principles for biopharmaceutical process equipment.