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Sonobioreactors: using ultrasound for enhanced microbial productivity
1Institute of Technology and Engineering, PN456, Massey University, Private Bag 11 222, Palmerston North, New Zealand. y.christi@massey.ac.nz
Trends in Biotechnology
|February 8, 2003
Summary
Controlled ultrasound application enhances the metabolic productivity of microbial, plant, and animal cells in bioreactors. This review explores sonobioreactor design for ultrasound-enhanced biocatalysis, focusing on beneficial effects rather than cell damage.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Biocatalysis
- Cellular Engineering
Background:
- Improving the economics of biotechnology processes relies on enhanced metabolic productivity of cells in bioreactors.
- Ultrasound is a method for intensifying the performance of live biocatalysts.
- While ultrasonication can damage cells, controlled sonication shows beneficial effects on cell conversions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the productivity-enhancing effects of ultrasound on live biological systems.
- To discuss design considerations for sonobioreactors for ultrasound-enhanced biocatalysis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on studies investigating ultrasound effects on cellular metabolic productivity.
- Analysis of evidence for beneficial effects of controlled sonication on biocatalytic conversions.
- Examination of design principles for sonobioreactors.
Main Results:
- Emerging evidence supports beneficial effects of controlled sonication on live cell conversions.
- Ultrasound can enhance metabolic productivity in microbial, plant, and animal cells.
- Specific design considerations are crucial for effective sonobioreactor implementation.
Conclusions:
- Controlled ultrasound application offers a promising strategy for enhancing biocatalysis.
- Sonobioreactor design must account for optimizing beneficial sonication effects while minimizing cell damage.
- Further research into sonobioreactor engineering can unlock significant improvements in biotechnology economics.
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