Concept:
The isoelectric point (pI) is the pH at which a protein has no net charge.
• Below pI → Protein is positively charged • Above pI → Protein is negatively charged Step 1: Understanding chromatography principles.
• Gel filtration: Separation based on size → pI not relevant.
• Ion exchange chromatography: Separation based on charge → depends on pI → Relevant.
• Reverse phase chromatography: Based on hydrophobicity → pI not directly used.
• Hydrophobic interaction chromatography: Based on hydrophobic interactions → pI not primary factor.
Step 2: Selecting the correct answer.
Since pI determines the charge of protein, it is most useful in ion exchange chromatography.