Bioreactor enhances long-term culturing of human stem cells

The bioreactor provides optimal conditions for human induced pluripotent stem cells cultivation: 

• Temperature Control: Maintains a steady 37°C.   

• CO₂ Saturation: Ensures a stable environment with 5 percent CO₂. 

• Dynamic Mixing: Features an impeller for effective stirring, aeration, and heat transfer, enabling uniform cell growth.   

Thomas Schwarz, a scientist at Fraunhofer TLC-RT, emphasized, “We focus on the good of the cells and designed and built all of the components of our bioreactor with that in mind.” 

The system incorporates several innovative elements to automate and improve the culturing process: 

• Fluid Loop System: Fully automated, sterile transport of culture media and solutions.   

• Integrated AI: A neural network monitors cell geometry and counts cells during cultivation. 

• Built-In Microscope: Ensures quality control by checking for cell agglomeration.   

“Our modular system can be expanded to include additional functions and is distinguished by its flexibility and high degree of automation, plus it allows for controlled cell handling. The closed-loop structure and automatic exchange of fluid components prevent contamination,” noted Schwarz.  

The bioreactor's design allows for scalability and customization: 

• Adjustable Glass Vessel: Accommodates varying production volumes.   

• Modular Structure: Enables integration of additional features, making the system adaptable to specific research needs. 

• Compatibility: Supports multiple bioreactor types, ensuring flexibility in application. 

MEDICA-tradefair.com; Source: Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft