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Multi-Stream Perfusion Bioreactor Integrated with Outlet Fractionation for Dynamic Cell Culture
Published on: July 20, 2022
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Miniature auto-perfusion bioreactor system with spiral microfluidic cell retention device
Lu Yin1,2, Wen Y Au3, Chia C Yu4
1Critical Analytics for Manufacturing of Personalized Medicine Interdisciplinary Research Group, Singapore-MIT Alliance in Research and Technology, Singapore, Singapore.
Biotechnology and Bioengineering
|February 9, 2021
Summary
A novel miniature auto-perfusion system uses microfluidic chips to maintain high cell concentrations in cultures for up to 14 days. This technology overcomes membrane filter clogging, improving cell viability and morphology in bioprocessing.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Cell Culture Technology
- Microfluidics
Background:
- Maintaining high cell concentrations is crucial for efficient cell culture.
- Conventional membrane filtration for medium exchange suffers from clogging and fouling in long-term cultures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a miniature auto-perfusion system utilizing microfluidic cell retention for long-term cell culture.
- To overcome limitations of traditional membrane filtration methods.
Main Methods:
- A novel auto-perfusion system with a spiral microfluidic chip for cell retention was designed.
- The system was tested for continuous perfusion culture of Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells and mesenchymal stem cells.
Main Results:
- The system supported continuous CHO cell culture for 14 days without chip replacement.
- Achieved 25% higher CHO cell concentration compared to manual medium exchange.
- Demonstrated improved cell quality (viability, morphology, fewer aggregates) at high cell densities.
Conclusions:
- The miniature auto-perfusion system effectively overcomes membrane filter issues.
- It provides a robust solution for maintaining optimal conditions and high cell concentrations in small-scale cultures.
- The system shows potential for research and clinical applications, including stem cell culture.
