Physical conditions during batch culture of hybridomas in laboratory scale stirred tank reactors

Due to the nature of animal cell suspension culture, physical conditions during growth such as pH, pO2, pCO2, agitation and aeration are inter-related and can exhibit individual or combined effects on cells. Evaluation of their influence on hybridoma growth and monoclonal antibody production can only be achieved by the use of well-instrumented stirred tank reactors. To determine the effect of the various physical conditions, mouse hybridomas, excreting antibody specific for human IgG, have been cultured in a 2 litre mechanically agitated round bottomed glass vessel, equipped with facilities to monitor and control these parameters during cell growth. Batch culture has been carried out at 36 degrees C in medium supplemented with 5% foetal calf serum (FCS). Clones have also been grown successfully with 2% FCS additions and in serum free medium, after careful adaptation periods. At least two clones have been assessed for comparative purposes.