affinity chromatography

noun

: chromatography in which a macromolecule (such as a protein) is isolated and purified by passing it in solution through a column treated with a substance having a ligand for which the macromolecule has an affinity that causes it to be retained on the column

Word History

First Known Use

1968, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

affinity chromatography

noun

: chromatography in which a macromolecule (as a protein) is isolated and purified by passing it in solution through a column that has been treated with a substance having a ligand for which the macromolecule has an affinity that causes it to be retained on the column