Quantifying antibody titers remains a critical step in biologics development, from early clone selection through downstream processing. Yet common workflows often delay this data until several days into a run, slowing decision-making and extending development timelines. In parallel, aggregate analysis—a key indicator of product quality—typically requires separate assays, adding further complexity.
A newly launched protein A affinity column is designed to address both challenges. By enhancing sensitivity and enabling multi-attribute analysis in a single run, the BioResolve Protein A Affinity Columns facilitate earlier insight into cell culture performance and streamline routine quality assessments. For analytical scientists working in upstream and downstream bioprocessing, the result is faster, more streamlined workflows without sacrificing precision.
Enabling Earlier Insight in Bioprocessing
Traditional titer measurements are often delayed due to sensitivity limitations in existing columns. “Currently, antibody titer measurements are typically first taken around day 5 due to sample concentration limitations,” explains Michael Zagieboylo, Senior Product Manager for Biopharma Chromatography & Consumables. He adds that newer affinity columns with improved sensitivity can support real-time analyses from day 1.
For scientists seeking faster clone screening and earlier bioreactor assessments, this shift could offer measurable gains. The higher sensitivity enables actionable quantitation even at low titers, minimizing the need for large sample volumes or waiting for later-stage cultures.
Streamlining Multi-Attribute Analysis
The new column also supports integrated titer and aggregate measurements, reducing the need for sequential workflows. These combined analyses are critical for assessing both the quantity and structural integrity of antibody therapeutics.
“Scientists are looking to be more productive through multi-dimensional analyses to get twice the information in half the time of sequential testing,” advises Zagieboylo. He reveals that traditional 2D setups are often complicated to build and execute, but this new approach enables simplified multidimensional setups without compromising sample handling or data quality.
The design enables plug-and-play configurations for LC and LC/MS systems, making it easier to extract more data from each sample without expanding runtime or workflow complexity.
Enabling Direct-Connect and Real-Time Monitoring
Improved hardware performance further expands use cases. Direct-connect workflows—previously impractical with standard protein A columns—can now be more easily implemented. This compatibility supports more agile process analytical technology (PAT) strategies.
“There are new opportunities and methods to explore with newer affinity column technologies,” asserts Zagieboylo. “For example, our new column has a higher pressure tolerance and lower elution volume requirements than current protein A columns. This allows for direct-connect methods that weren’t feasible until now.”
He sees particular potential in real-time monitoring. “Having actionable data from day one through fill and finish will become the norm,” advises Zagieboylo, indicating that this is the direction bioprocessing is headed.
Conclusion: Faster, Smarter Biologic Development
By reducing turnaround time and eliminating redundant assays, the column reflects a broader shift in bioprocess analytics, from discrete tests to integrated, real-time quality monitoring. For scientists working under tight timelines and increasing pressure to accelerate development, these tools offer a more responsive and informative path forward.