Inline Light Scattering for Viral Vector Purity Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

The current manufacturing processes for viral vectors lack in-line process analytical technology (PAT) for detecting and quantifying viral vectors, controlling the separation of infectious particles from non-infectious particles, and separating intact viral vector particles from process-specific impurities like exosomes, necessitating lengthy assays that hinder real-time decision-making.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a static light scattering device, such as a multi-angle light scattering (MALS) device, in-line with the manufacturing process to control and automate unit operations, detect viral particles, and separate them from impurities based on particle size.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional assay methods are used to detect and quantify viral vectors, then measurement precision can be achieved, but the process requires lengthy assays that prevent real-time decision-making

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection precisionVSAvoidassay time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical/chemical assay methods with light scattering technology (optical detection) to detect and quantify viral vectors. This substitution enables real-time detection during manufacturing without the lengthy processing times associated with conventional assays, while maintaining measurement precision through optical measurement of particle size and concentration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If no in-line separation process is used, then device complexity is reduced, but the separation of infectious particles from non-infectious particles and impurities cannot be controlled in real-time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveseparation controlVSAvoidprocess complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements in-line light scattering detection that provides real-time feedback on particle size distribution during the manufacturing process. This feedback enables dynamic control of separation processes (such as filtration or centrifugation) to effectively separate infectious viral vectors from non-infectious particles and impurities, improving separation reliability while the automated control minimizes the perceived complexity for operators.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Productivity

If traditional manufacturing processes are used, then device complexity is minimized, but productivity is reduced due to lack of real-time detection and separation control

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing efficiencyVSAvoidprocess complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements continuous in-line detection using light scattering technology throughout the manufacturing process, eliminating the need for batch sampling and laboratory analysis. This continuous monitoring enables real-time process optimization and immediate corrective actions, significantly improving manufacturing productivity by maintaining continuous production flow rather than interrupting for quality testing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables real-time detection and separation of viral particles from impurities, enhancing the efficiency and automation of the manufacturing process, thereby improving the recovery and purity of infectious viral particles.

Implementation Method 1

using a static light scattering device (e.g., a multi-angle light scattering (MALS)) device in-line with a manufacturing process to detect the viral particles

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight scattering: Scattering

Implementation Method 2

a MALS device is used to control each unit operation in the manufacturing process... the particle size may be measured as the radius or diameter of the particle

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMulti-angle light scattering: Scattering

Data Source

PatentUS12516349B2Methods and systems for manufacturing viral vectors
Publication Date: 2026.01.06 REGENERON PHARMACEUTICALS INC
  • US12516349B2 patent drawing
  • US12516349B2 patent drawing
  • US12516349B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Disclosed herein are methods and systems for manufacturing viral vectors (e.g., lentiviral vectors) using a static light scattering device in-line with a manufacturing process.