Membrane-Based Approach for the Downstream Processing of Influenza Virus-Like Particles

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Vaccine Development
• Process Engineering

Background:

• Current influenza vaccines require seasonal updates due to homologous virus specificity.
• Manufacturing challenges arise from varying physicochemical properties of different influenza strains, complicating purification.
• A universal platform is crucial for adaptable and efficient vaccine production.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore a filtration-based approach for purifying influenza virus-like particles (VLPs).
• To develop a universal platform for VLP purification that accommodates variations in influenza strains.
• To optimize filtration parameters for enhanced VLP recovery and impurity removal.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a cascade of ultrafiltration and diafiltration steps for size-based purification.
• Evaluated membrane chemistry, pore size, operational modes, critical flux, and transmembrane pressure.
• Assessed permeate control strategies, concentration factors, and diafiltration volumes.

Main Results:

• Achieved approximately 80% product recovery by optimizing filtration modes.
• Reduced overall process time by 30% compared to traditional methods.
• Demonstrated improved scalability and reduced manufacturing costs by eliminating chromatography.

Conclusions:

• A filtration-based strategy offers a scalable and cost-effective method for purifying influenza VLPs.
• This universal platform approach addresses manufacturing challenges associated with seasonal influenza vaccine updates.
• Optimized filtration processes enhance efficiency and reduce the overall cost of vaccine production.