Bosch launches pilot fermenter for manufacturing APIs

Published: 13-Jun-2017

Bosch has launched a new pilot fermenter, a highly flexible system capable of a broad range of processes, for the cultivation of APIs on a laboratory and pilot scale

Dr John Medina, Sales Director at Bosch subsidiary Pharmatec, said: “In the pharmaceutical industry, the manufacture of complex compounds using biotechnological methods continues to grow in importance.

"Whether the desired substance is an insulin preparation or a medication for targeted cancer therapy — our bioprocessing systems deliver optimum product quality and excellent process results. With the new pilot fermenter, Bosch has rolled out a modular, fully automatic system that is suitable for [research and development] R&D applications, clinical studies in the lab, and industrial production of small batches.”

Modular process system for diverse cell cultures

When it comes to designing fermentation systems, the goal is to create optimal growing conditions for microorganisms such as cells and bacteria. At the same time, these systems have to meet the strict cGMP regulation standards for the pharmaceutical industry.

Bosch’s highly versatile pilot fermenter satisfies the specific requirements for the production of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), and for a diverse range of applications.

Medina said: “Thanks to its modular design, the bioreactor is well suited to various cultivation processes and cell cultures. Interchangeable mixing and dosing technologies ensure that the optimal fermentation process can be found to match the customers’ needs.”

Depending on the selected mixer, the fermenter can process batch sizes from 8 or 13 litres, up to 50 litres. In addition, reactor sizes for 100 and 200 litres are available for pilot and small industrial batches.

Bosch has complemented its existing portfolio of fermentation devices, which had previously offered production volumes ranging from 500 to 5000 litres.

Interchangeable mixing technologies

Depending on requirements, the system can be equipped with one of several interchangeable mixing elements, designed for different cell types and process controls.

The mixer regulates the inflow of liquids or gases needed for cell cultivation. Sensitive cells require the use of gentler technologies like the air lift module, while more robust cells can be stirred mechanically.

The feeding of process media takes place automatically. As an alternative to the installed peristaltic pumps and two additional pumps in the periphery, there is a separate module offering high-precision dosing for liquid media with four syringe pumps.

The system periphery can be expanded to include additional peristaltic pumps, so that additional process fluids can be dosed.

Continuous process controls

Because the pilot fermenter is equipped with a gentle rotary pump and a second reactor vessel, it supports batch and fed-batch processes, as well as perfusion and continuous processing.

Whereas the cell culture is essentially left to itself in batch processes, fed-batch processes continue to supply nutrient solutions during fermentation, resulting in higher cell density and product yield.

In turn, perfusion is suited for the highest possible cell density: the fermenter is continuously supplied with fresh media, and equal amounts of waste media are extracted from the cultivation process by the system’s two hollow fibre modules.

The system is built as a package unit and the integrated wall allows the clear separation of the technical section from the operational area. The fermenter is designed for easy cleaning and sterilisation (CIP/SIP). Its integrated periphery includes a steam generator, exhaust air cooler, and a heating/cooling device for the bioreactor.

Depending on the task-specific requirements, up to four interchangeable process sensors are available. This concept enables quick installation at available spaces with limited media availability and quick changeover.

In terms of subsequent downstream processes and the formulation of the final injectable liquid, Bosch offers comprehensive solutions that can be seamlessly combined with other Bosch products for the filling and packaging of liquid pharmaceuticals.

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