akta

AKTA is a brand name for a family of automated liquid chromatography systems used for purification of biomolecules, especially proteins, through fast protein liquid chromatography (FPLC). The line originated with Amersham Pharmacia Biotech and later became part of GE Healthcare and, after corporate changes, Cytiva. The name is a brand; it does not represent a single instrument or a formal acronym.

AKTA systems integrate pumps, sample injectors, chromatography columns, detectors, and fraction collectors, all controlled by software such as UNICORN. They support multiple chromatographic modes (affinity, ion exchange, size exclusion, hydrophobic interaction) and allow gradient formation, pH control, and buffer swapping, enabling automated purification protocols and data collection during runs.

Notable models range from entry-level AKTA Start to mid-range AKTA Prime and Explorer, to higher-end AKTA Purifier and AKTA Avant. The systems are designed for reproducibility and scalability, with method transfer between instruments and, in some cases, from research to manufacturing environments.

Use cases include purification of recombinant proteins, antibodies, nucleic acids, and other biomolecules in academic labs and biopharmaceutical development and manufacturing. The AKTA platform has driven simplified optimization of resin and buffer conditions and provides integrated data analysis and audit trails in regulated settings.