Optical Nutrients Monitor for Bioreactor Applications in Zero Gravity

Intelligent Optical Systems, Inc. proposes to develop a fluorescence detection based miniature multisensor probe and detection system to monitor cell nutrient parameters in zero gravity. The proposed sensor system can be integrated into NASA?s bioreactor hardware to enhance performance. Luminescent nano-particles will be used as fluorescent indicators to provide greater signal intensity and to reduce photo-degradation. The ultimate optical nutrients monitor will be capable of detecting and monitoring vital nutrient parameters such as pH, temperature, dissolved carbon dioxide, dissolved oxygen, and glucose. The device will provide a continuous, unmanned measurement of the bioreactor?s parameters. The optical monitor will require no reagent replacement and is projected to be capable of long term unattended real-time monitoring of cell culture media.In Phase I, we will demonstrate the feasibility and sensitivity of the optical monitoring device and the single source fluorescence system using buffers and cell culture media (lacto bacillus). In Phase II, we will construct and test a field deployable prototype monitor to be used in a NASA bioreactor project.