MCAT Organic Chemistry Question 180: Answer and Explanation

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Question: 180

15. Lactoferrin, a milk protein, is a valuable antimicrobial agent that is extracted from pasteurized, defatted milk utilizing a column containing a charged resin. This is an example of which of the following chromatographic techniques?

  • A. Thin-layer chromatography
  • B. Ion-exchange chromatography
  • C. Affinity chromatography
  • D. Size-exclusion chromatography

Correct Answer: B

Explanation:

Because the lactoferrin proteins are likely to be charged, as is the resin described in the question, this is an example of ion-exchange chromatography. The charged protein molecules will stick to the column, while the remainder of the milk washes through and can later be washed off of the column and collected.

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