A305 L08 bioreactor by Darren Tan

Task 1: Summarise and explain what environmental parameters are required for mammalian cells to grow in a bioreactor.

2024-01-03 05:14:53 UTC

1) Temperature of 37°C:

The optimal temperature of enzymes in mammalian cells is 37°C. The temperature in the bioreactor being set to 37°C allows the biochemical reactions in the mammalian cells to occur hence promoting cell proliferation.

If temperatures are above or below 37°C, the reactions will be carried out slower. If temperatures are extremely high or low, the enzymes will denature resulting in cellular death.

2) pH 7.2-7.4:

pH of 7.2-7.4 is important to keep the cells at the mammalian physiological range for optimal growth. The enzymes function optimally in this range hence promoting cell proliferation.

3) Minerals & Vitamins must be added to media:

Vitamins are co-factors for many enzymes. Without the addition of vitamins, the enzymes willl not be able to carry out the reactions leading to cell death

Task 2: List the main component parts of a bioreactor and their functions.

tanbocongdarren — 2024-01-03 05:15:29 UTC

1) Baffles:

Its function is to prevent vortex formation. By allowing vortexes to form, it would affect the mixing and cause bubble formation and spillages to occur. Baffles allow uniform mixing to prevent these vortexes form forming to ensure there is a homogenous, low shear and continuous mixing occurring in the bioreactor

2) impeller

- create homogenous solution through facilitation of content mixing to ensure cells in a homogenous condition have better transport of nutrients, oxygen, air and heat

- provide agitation together with drive mechanism and motor

- different types that affects how liquid flows; 1) radial flow causes liquid flow towards reactor walls, 2) axial flow causes liquid flow down the reactor base

3) sparger

It is an instrument meant to incorporate gases into the bioreactor. It is usually located at the bottom of the bioreactor to transfer oxygen into the tank. the release of gases also allow for the mixing of the liquids via agitation.

4) Jacket

The jacket maintains insulation and some control over the released heat of the bioreactor. The outer section keeps the tank insulated while the inner section has a cooling fluid running through it to maintain the temperature during an exothermic reaction

dissolved Oxygen level, nutrient level

2024-01-03 05:37:22 UTC

Dissolved oxygen level: Mammalian cells require oxygen for respiration and cell division. Oxygen is necessary for energy, protein production and cell growth. It affects both the pH level and quality of the product. The dissolved O2 operating range is 30 to 40% production. Reactive oxygen species can chemically degrade the protein of interest. The levels can be controlled with the use of a dissolved oxygen probe.

Nutrient level: Mammalian cells require a variety of nutrients to growth. The nutrients include amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and sugars. The concentrations of these nutrients vary based on the type of cell culture. When the concentration is askew it can lead to cell growth inhibition, metabolic stress and decreased productivity. The culture medium must be monitored and controlled, ensuring that the cells have the necessary building blocks for cellular processes. They can be monitored using biosensors or fluorescent probes.