Robotic Bioreactor for Cell Culture in Space Applications (DYNACULT)

The specific innovation proposed is a fully-automated perfused cell-culture bioreactor system (laboratory in a cassette) tentatively named DYNACULT. Space Hardware Optimization Technology, Inc.,will incorporate several technical innovations into the integrated DYNACULT system. These include, but are not limited to, options for gentle mixing of cell and/or microcarrier suspensions independently variable perfusion and oxygenation rates, pH and oxygen monitoring, real-time imaging of cells, compact design, computerized and automated control of all functions, user-friendly operation, and flexible options for automated collection of samples of cells and cell-free media simultaneously at chosen times. These functions can control and operate a 50 mL or 100 mL prototype bioreactor for several days without operator intervention. The need for these technical innovations were identified in SHOT's previous research that led to a flight-qualified and flight-proven bioreactor prototype named CELLCULT. The DYNACULT system will fit conveniently into a cassette with a volume less than 2.0 L (space-flight version) or on a single shelf of a standard tissue culture incubator. SHOT, Inc. has manufactured prototypical space cell culture devices of the DYNACULT type and will utilize this experience along with the proposed innovations to establish a position in space and biotechnology markets for fully automated cell culture instruments.