BioSamplr: An open source, low cost automated sampling system for bioreactors

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Bioprocess Engineering
• Laboratory Automation

Background:

• Manual bioreactor sampling is labor-intensive, prone to errors, and limits continuous monitoring.
• Existing automated sampling systems are often expensive and complex, hindering accessibility for smaller laboratories.
• There is a need for cost-effective and user-friendly automated sampling solutions to improve bioprocess research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design, build, and validate a low-cost, open-source automated bioreactor sampling system.
• To demonstrate the system's capability for reproducible, aseptic, and time-efficient sample collection.
• To provide an accessible automated sampling solution for laboratories with limited resources.

Main Methods:

• Development of the BioSamplr using affordable, 3D-printed components and a Raspberry Pi controller.
• Implementation of wireless control for automated sample collection at user-defined intervals.
• Integration of a cooling system for sample preservation and data logging capabilities.

Main Results:

• The BioSamplr successfully performed automated sampling from bioreactors with high reproducibility.
• The system demonstrated reduced hands-on time and enabled 24-hour sampling capabilities.
• The low-cost design and open-source nature significantly enhance accessibility for various research settings.

Conclusions:

• The BioSamplr offers a viable, cost-effective alternative to expensive commercial autosamplers.
• This automated system improves bioreactor experiment efficiency, reproducibility, and aseptic handling.
• The open-source platform facilitates wider adoption and potential for further customization in bioprocess monitoring.