Equilibrium centrifugation, principles

To illustrate the principles of an equilibrium dialysis experiment, we will describe the binding of [ H] acetylcholine to the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) in native membranes from Torpedo electro-plax. The data obtained from such an experiment are shown in Figure 10-7 where they are compared with data obtained from a centrifugation assay described below (Protocol 4.2). 

The basic principle is that the solid or semisolid sample is suspended into an aqueous solution and left under stirring to reach equilibrium of the analyte between the solid particles and water. In some methods, the solid phase is then removed by centrifugation, while in others, it is kept in the sample during the extraction. " ... 

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