Automated Cell Transduction Bioreactor System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cell processing systems are cumbersome, expensive, and lack end-to-end process flexibility and scalability, particularly in automating cell transduction, which is critical for precise control over cell characteristics and broader patient accessibility.
Innovation Solution
An automated cell processing system with a cell processing cartridge that includes a fluidic manifold, bioreactor module, and flow cell, enabling efficient transduction and expansion of cells through controlled fluid exchange, with transduction efficiencies exceeding 50% and scalable workflows.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual cell processing operations are performed in biosafety cabinets and cleanrooms, then cell transduction can be accomplished, but the process becomes expensive, time-consuming, and operationally complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple discrete cell processing operations (transduction, expansion, harvesting) into a single integrated automated bioreactor system. The bioreactor module integrates fluidic manifolds, tubing sets, and control systems to perform sequential operations without manual intervention, thereby reducing operational complexity while maintaining transduction efficiency through controlled automated workflows
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations in biosafety cabinets with an automated control system that uses programmable workflows to manage cell processing. The automated system controls fluid delivery, mixing, and transfer operations through electronic control, eliminating the need for manual manipulation and reducing human error while maintaining process reliability
2Extent of automation
If conventional automated platforms use pre-configured instrumentation and tubing sets, then automation is achieved, but operational flexibility is limited and process failure due to human error is not reliably prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic reconfigurability in the automated bioreactor system through programmable control workflows that can be adjusted for different cell types, transduction protocols, and processing volumes. The system allows dynamic modification of operational parameters and sequencing of steps without requiring physical reconfiguration, thereby maintaining both high automation and operational flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs a universal bioreactor module that can perform multiple cell processing functions (transduction, expansion, harvesting) within a single integrated platform. The standardized interface and modular design allow the same hardware to accommodate different protocols and cell types, enhancing adaptability while maintaining full automation
3Ease of manufacture
If multiple separate cell processing devices are used for each step, then specific functions can be performed, but the workflow becomes cumbersome and requires multiple days or weeks to complete
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate cell processing devices into a single integrated bioreactor module that performs transduction, expansion, and harvesting sequentially in one automated workflow. This consolidation eliminates the need to transfer cells between separate devices and reduces the overall processing time from days or weeks to a single automated cycle
4Ease of operation
If manual reagent preparation and instrument manipulation steps are employed, then cell processing can be performed, but the process requires skilled technicians and adequate sterile enclosures, increasing cost and time investment
Solution Approach 1:
The automated bioreactor system performs self-service by automatically preparing reagents, managing fluid deliveries, and executing processing workflows without requiring skilled technicians for manual intervention. The system includes automated mixing, pumping, and transfer functions that eliminate manual reagent preparation and instrument manipulation, reducing both time and skill requirements
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein are systems and methods for automated cell transduction within a cell processing system. A system for cell processing may include a cell processing cartridge having a transduction system. The transduction system may include a fluidic manifold, one or more modules for performing a cell processing protocol, and a tube having a surface area to volume ration of between about 1,260 mm2/mL and about 5,080 mm2/mL. A method for cell processing may first include flowing cells through a tube of a flow cell of a cell processing cartridge for a first time period to achieve a transduction efficiency of at least 50%. Second, the method may include expanding the cells within a bioreactor module of the cell processing cartridge for a second time period.