This exchange is utilized to separate proteins that have faintly differing charges. Like all anion exchangers, the resin carries a positive charge that interacts favorably with negative charges. The positive charge of DEAE cellulose is due to a protonated amine group.
The process separates proteins based on slight differences in their charges. Just like other anion exchangers, the resin has a positive charge that interacts positively with negative charges. The positive charge in DEAE cellulose comes from a protonated amine group.