Analytical Ultracentrifugation (AUC)
strong>Analytical ultracentrifugation (AUC) is a method that applies strong centrifugal forces to a sample, observes the sedimentation of solutes in solution over time, and analyzes the resulting sedimentation behavior to determine the solute's shape, molecular weight, and dispersion or association state.
AUC is one of the techniques boasting extremely high resolution in the analysis of aggregates in biopharmaceuticals. It can detect association complexes and aggregates in size ranges difficult to separate and quantify using general-purpose techniques like SEC with high resolution. Consequently, it is widely utilized across diverse fields, including pharmaceutical companies. However, measuring and analyzing AUC requires advanced expertise and extensive experience.
For over 15 years since our founding, we have continuously refined our AUC analysis technology and have accumulated extensive experience. As a leading company in the biopharmaceutical field both domestically and internationally, we provide advanced analytical services. Additionally, our company possesses a total of five units: the Proteome Lab XL-A (equipped with a fluorescence detector), XL-I, and three Optima units, enabling us to accommodate diverse measurement needs.
Ultracentrifuge Analyzer (XL-I)
Ultracentrifuge Analyzer
(XL-A, with Fluorescence Detector)
Ultracentrifuge Analyzer (Optima)
| Analysis Menu | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Sedimentation Rate Method | Sedimentation coefficient distribution, sample purity, aggregate quantification, stoichiometry of complexes, hydrodynamic shape, molecular weight and Stokes radius distribution, dissociation-association equilibrium constants, etc. |
| Sedimentation Equilibrium Method | Molecular weight, evaluation of intermolecular interactions based on the second virial coefficient, dissociation-association equilibrium constants, stoichiometry of complexes, etc. |
We also conduct testing under a quality assurance system to obtain the data required for pharmaceutical applications.
AUC under GMP standards
- In addition to reliability standards, we have been providing Japan's only GxP-compliant (GLP/GMP) analytical services since 2025.
Fluorescence Dynamic Size Exclusion Chromatography (FDS-AUC)
As the number of biopharmaceuticals reaching the market increases, interest is growing in their dispersed states within actual functional environments such as body fluids and cell culture media. However, these environments contain impurities like other proteins, nucleic acids, and lipids. Consequently, conventional AUC methods struggle to accurately assess the dispersed state of the target biopharmaceutical due to interference from these impurities.
You Medico is the only service provider in Japan equipped with ultracentrifuge analysis instruments featuring a Fluorescence Detection System (FDS). Leveraging the high selectivity of fluorescence detection, it enables the evaluation of target protein dispersion states in complex environments where this was previously difficult. We have a proven track record of evaluating dispersion states in complex environments such as plasma, serum, and cell culture media.
Ultracentrifuge Analyzer
(XL-A, with Fluorescence Detector)
Analysis Example
Related Services
Fluorescent Labeling and Purification
Label the target protein with a fluorescent dye and purify the fluorescent protein using HPLC size exclusion chromatography.
Density and Viscosity Measurement
Measure the density of the solvent using a vibrating density meter and the viscosity using a capillary falling-ball viscometer. The specific volume is calculated from the slope of the density change with respect to the concentration change of the protein, which was measured beforehand.