Optical inline measurement procedures for counting and sizing cells in bioprocess technology

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology and bioprocessing
• Optical sensing technologies
• Cellular analysis

Background:

• Optical sensors are crucial for monitoring and controlling cultivation processes.
• Key parameters include cell count, size distribution, and morphology.
• Existing offline imaging methods require sampling, while inline probes offer limited data.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce novel optical procedures for inline determination of cellular parameters.
• To present an in situ microscopy technique for real-time analysis.
• To overcome limitations of current offline and inline imaging methods.

Main Methods:

• Development of new optical procedures for inline analysis.
• Application of in situ microscopy for imaging.
• Real-time data acquisition without the need for sampling.

Main Results:

• Successful inline determination of cell count and size distribution.
• Ability to assess cell morphology in real time.
• Demonstration of direct and indirect cellular parameter measurement.

Conclusions:

• The presented in situ microscopy offers a significant advancement for bioprocess monitoring.
• Real-time, inline analysis without sampling enhances process control and understanding.
• This technology provides a comprehensive solution for critical cellular parameter assessment.