MilliporeSigma Launches BioContinuum Seed Train Platform for Intensified Upstream Processes


MilliporeSigma, the US and Canada Life Science business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, a leading science and technology company, recently announced at the ESACT meeting in Lisbon, Portugal, the launch of the BioContinuum Seed Train Platform, the industry’s only integrated and versatile solution enabling biomanufacturers to confidently move toward next generation bioprocessing using seed train intensification.

The platform consists of proprietary products for N-1 perfusion and high cell density cryopreservation (HCDC) including: the off-the-shelf Cellvento 4CHO-X Expansion Medium specifically designed for seed train expansion and N-1 perfusion, the Cellicon Perfusion Solution for superior cell retention, and closed processing-ready Mobius HCDC R&D single-use assemblies for high cell density cryopreservation.

The integrated BioContinuum Seed Train Platform addresses the need for an efficient, consistent seed train that supports increased cell densities for intensification of the N production process. Specifically, it enables increased monoclonal antibody productivity in the production stage, reduces facility footprint and utilization, and accelerates manufacturing timelines. The intensified process enabled by the platform is fully closed and compatible with both fed-batch and perfusion N-production stages, offering maximum flexibility. Efficiencies gained by seed train intensification reduce labor requirements and operational complexity, and because the process is closed, the risk of contamination is greatly reduced.

Seed train intensification is the first step toward optimization of the entire upstream workflow, enabling biomanufacturers to realize the time and cost savings for fed-batch and perfusion processes. At a time when many manufacturers of monoclonal antibodies are seeking to add capacity to support growing demand, process intensification increases flexibility and reduces manufacturing footprint to realize their facilities’ full potential.

Learn more about the BioContinuum™ Seed Train Platform.