New product enables automated batch feeding to optimise metabolism, and ultimately increase yields in biologics manufacture

The Ranger™ system can be integrated into all bioprocessing systems, running microbial or mammalian cell cultures, and enables bioprocess managers to monitor and control metabolic rate, observe both single batch and batch to batch processing trends, and accurately determine end of process. Ranger™ provides bioprocess managers new measurements that, through the integral data analysis software, give simple instructions on the provision of nutrients. The output from Ranger™ can be used to automate the feeding regime of the culture.

Ranger™, is comprised of Ranger™ Manager, an intelligent multi-probe management system, and Ranger™ Probe, a refractive index media sensor. Together, these give real-time feedback on the status of process media. Harnessing refractive index measurements, the extent to which light waves bend when in varying density solutions, Ranger™ gives instantaneous insight into process kinetics by monitoring the composition of the bioprocess culture.

Ranger™ can be used to determine, identify and react to key process characteristics. Applications include automated nutrient additions into a bioreactor, in response to an organism’s requirements in real-time.

Dr Sam Watts, Business Development Officer, and founder of Stratophase said: "In the design and development of Ranger™ we aimed to address Process Analytical Technology (PAT), the US FDA’s call for improvements in bioprocessing through advanced monitoring techniques during manufacture. Ranger™ will enable users to improve consistency, reduce waste, and increase yields in their biopharmaceutical manufacture processing."

Ranger™ probes are compatible with standard sensor housings and ports, permitting probe installation across a wide range of bioreactor volumes. The stainless steel probes are reusable and designed to withstand standard cleaning and sterilization procedures used with existing bioprocess sensors.

The Ranger™ Manager allows from four or eight probes to be deployed in parallel and is designed for use across the full range of process scale up including process development, pilot-scale environments, and full production scale. Users can choose to employ Ranger ™ Manager as a standalone data recorder, or interface it directly with data handling or control systems using optional OPC or analogue connectivity.

The touch-screen interface allows data capture and real-time display to be customized to the user’s preferences. Recorded data can be exported from the system for offline analysis using the USB interface or transmitted over a data networks via Ethernet protocols.

For more information or to receive a demonstration data pack please visit our website: www.stratophase.com