✨ Key improvements involve integrating advanced instruments into existing workflows.
🧬 They use a novel expression vector and ClonePIX for screening top antibody producers.
🔍 To meet stringent regulations, a new imaging device ensures single-cell selection, enhancing viability.
🤖 Future plans include AI integration for better efficiency.
Introduction:
The article discusses advancements made by researchers from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) in the development of a fully automated high-throughput process for cell-line development. The enhancements aim to significantly reduce the time required for creating cell lines, which is critical in responding to future pandemic threats.
- The research team integrated improved instruments into their existing workflow to enhance cell-line development efficiencies.
- The workflow involves creating expression vectors, transfecting CHO cells, developing stable cell pools, and selecting high-producing monoclonal antibody (mAb) clones.
- Use of a ClonePIX® system facilitated automated screening, but challenges with inconsistent growth in bioreactor systems were identified.
- To meet stringent regulatory requirements, the team incorporated a VIPS™ instrument to ensure single-cell selection during the plating process.
- Future plans include optimizing media for better timelines, acquiring advanced imaging technology, and introducing quality assays earlier in the workflow.
Conclusion:
The NIAID’s work on automating cell-line development showcases significant progress towards enhancing biomanufacturing capabilities in response to pandemics. By continuing to refine their processes and integrating advanced technologies, the team aims not only to improve efficiencies but also to maintain compliance with increasingly stringent regulatory standards. Their upcoming presentation at the Bioprocessing Summit indicates ongoing commitment to sharing advancements in the field.
