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A Hydrodynamic Approach to the Study of HIV Virus-Like Particle (VLP) Tangential Flow Filtration
Tobias Wolf1,2, Jamila Rosengarten2,3, Ina Härtel1
1Research Group Process Engineering, Faculty of Applied Natural Sciences, TH Köln-University of Applied Sciences, Campusplatz 1, 51379 Leverkusen, Germany.
Membranes
|December 23, 2022
Summary
Developing a new method using particle friction, this study optimizes Tangential Flow Filtration (TFF) for producing more rigid Virus-Like Particles (VLPs) for HIV vaccines. This approach enhances VLP purification and concentration efficiency.
Area of Science:
- Biopharmaceutical process development
- Membrane science
- Vaccine technology
Background:
- Virus-Like Particles (VLPs) are promising for HIV vaccines but are fragile, requiring careful handling during production.
- Tangential Flow Filtration (TFF) is used for VLP purification and concentration, but its performance limitations hinder upscaling and cost reduction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel methodology for optimizing and upscaling HIV VLP TFF processes.
- To identify and address the mechanisms limiting HIV VLP TFF performance.
Main Methods:
- A hydrodynamic approach based on particle friction was developed to model HIV VLP behavior near membranes.
- Friction forces acting on near-membrane VLPs were estimated.
- A particle friction-based model was used to fit experimental TFF data and make upscaling projections.
Main Results:
- The particle friction-based model effectively fits experimental data for HIV VLP TFF.
- The model predicts significant potential for improving HIV VLP TFF efficiency.
- Slightly increased flow velocities during TFF could dramatically enhance VLP purification and concentration.
Conclusions:
- A particle friction-based hydrodynamic model offers a robust method for optimizing and upscaling HIV VLP TFF.
- There is substantial room for improving HIV VLP TFF efficiency.
- This research provides guidance for membrane scientists in designing upscaling strategies for HIV VLP TFF.
