Transport within human tissue matrices, e.g., the subcutaneous
tissue, exhibits some resemblance to chromatographic processes. Here,
a porous matrix comprising agarose beads compatible with UV–vis
imaging was developed for a parallel piped rectangular flow cell (4
mm light path). Introduction of high-molecular weight dextrans (M
r ∼ 200000 and ∼500000) at 10%
(w/v) rendered imaging possible by providing optical clearing of the
turbid porous matrix, resulting in improved transmittance as well
as resolution (from 400 to 180 μm) at 280 nm, as well as 520
nm. The interplay between diffusive and convective transport at 0
< Pe ≤ 28 was visualized at 280 nm upon
injection of dexamethasone suspensions. Real-time UV–vis imaging
showed in-flow cell the effect of incorporating ion-exchange resins
on the retention of infliximab, lysozyme, and α-lactalbumin.
The ion-exchange matrix may serve as a surrogate for polyelectrolytes
in the subcutaneous tissue, assessing the potential role of electrostatic
interactions of biotherapeutics upon injection. UV–vis imaging
of size-exclusion chromatographic matrixes may be of interest in its
own right and potentially develop into a characterization tool for
injectables.