Bioprocess Technologies that Preserve the Quality of iPSCs

Large-scale production of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) is essential for the treatment of a variety of clinical indications. However, culturing enough iPSCs for clinical applications is problematic due to their sensitive pluripotent state and dependence on a supporting matrix. Developing stem cell bioprocessing strategies that are scalable and meet clinical needs requires incorporating methods that measure and monitor intrinsic markers of cell differentiation state, developmental status, and viability in real time. In addition, proper cell culture modalities that nurture the growth of high-quality stem cells in suspension are critical for industrial scale-up. In this review, we present an overview of cell culture media, suspension modalities, and monitoring techniques that preserve the quality and pluripotency of iPSCs during initiation, expansion, and manufacturing.