Robotic cell processing facility for clinical research of retinal cell therapy

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Regenerative Medicine
• Robotics in Healthcare

Background:

• Automated manufacturing is crucial for consistent, high-quality cell therapy production.
• Humanoid robots offer a viable solution for automating human cell culture processes.
• Robotic systems can bridge the gap between basic research and clinical applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a robotic cell-processing facility (R-CPF) for clinical research in retinal cell therapy.
• To assess the suitability of the Maholo LabDroid humanoid robot and an All-in-One CP unit for sterile cell manufacturing.
• To determine if the R-CPF can produce clinical-grade cells for transplantation.

Main Methods:

• Designed an R-CPF with separate robot and operator areas and controlled airflow for sterility.
• Monitored bacterial contamination (falling, floating, adhering) to ensure an aseptic environment.
• Performed cell manufacturing of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived retinal pigment epithelial cells.

Main Results:

• The R-CPF maintained the required cleanliness and aseptic conditions for cell manufacturing.
• The robotic system successfully produced iPSC-derived retinal cells meeting clinical quality standards for transplantation.
• The facility demonstrated suitability for producing cells for therapeutic applications.

Conclusions:

• The R-CPF is a suitable platform for cell manufacturing in clinical research.
• Utilizing consistent robotic systems across basic and clinical research can accelerate the translation of findings.
• This automated approach supports the advancement of retinal cell therapy.