Understanding And Mitigating Oxygen Heterogeneity In Large-Scale Bioreactors

By Jinhyoung Lee, Samsung Biologics

Oxygen, crucial for cellular respiration, is affected by pressure variations within a bioreactor, with higher pressure at the bottom leading to increased oxygen solubility. This heterogeneity is exacerbated in taller tanks., while factors like internal pressure, fluid density, gas composition, and temperature further influence oxygen solubility. Accurate dissolved oxygen (DO) measurement is likewise vital, but probe placement significantly impacts readings due to varying hydrostatic pressure. In small-scale bioreactors, DO measurements are more representative, whereas large-scale systems require sophisticated control strategies to address oxygen distribution variations.

To ensure consistent product quality and successful technology transfer, robust processes tailored to large-scale environments are essential. This includes adjusting DO setpoints, applying correction factors, and implementing advanced control algorithms to manage oxygen heterogeneity, ensuring optimal cell growth and product yield.