Fermentation research at the BPDF is focused on modeling, optimization, control, and metabolic flux analysis of P. pastoris at high cell density during the production of recombinant proteins. The Fermentation Development Laboratory (FDL) is well equipped with 18 computer-controlled fermentors i.e., 10 by 5L fermentors and 8 highly automated Bioengineering 22 L NLF fermentors. All 18 fermentors are integrated into a Prima VG mass spectrometer for off-gas analysis. The BPDF uses both dedicated methanol off-gas analyzers and the mass spectrometer to monitor methanol concentration during fermentation.
Capabilities
The FDL is capable of performing all types of microbial fermentation research and development. The FDL has worked with strict anaerobes ( Methanogens and Clostridium ) to high-cell density recombinant strains such as E. coli, S. cerevisiae, and P. pastoris . The FDL is best recognized, as is the rest of the BPDF, for its work with recombinant protein expression from the methylotrophic yeast P. pastoris . Over 90% of the projects in the FDL involve P. pastoris .
Equipment
The FDL is equipped with 6 New Brunswick Scientific Bioflo III and 3 Bioflo 3000 5 L fermentors and has recently purchased 8 Bioengineering 20L NLF22 Fermentors. The fermentors are computer controlled, equipped with balances for gravimetric addition of substrates, oxygen supplementation for high cell density and on-line methanol sensing. The new NLF22 stainless steel steam in place fermentors will also increase fermentation capacity and stability, and allow the FDL to better simulate Pilot Plant conditions. The FDL is also equipped for standard microbiology.
