Figure 4. Flowchart depicting the SMALPs reconstitution workflow.

Biological membranes containing the membrane protein of interest are solubilized using a SMA polymer, and the target protein is purified in detergent-free conditions. Multiple steps are often required to maximize purity: most often an affinity purification, followed by SEC. Once the target protein is sufficiently pure, it can be used in a variety of downstream applications, some of which are listed here.