Downstream Processing
Harvesting of the biomass resulting from the fermentation process is accomplished via microfiltration or centrifugation. Intracellular proteins are released by cell homogenization. Extracellular proteins are recovered after microfiltration or centrifugation by concentration on ultrafiltration units. Protein purification is achieved by various standard methods including ion exchange chromatography at scales of 1 to 50 liters. Final product is obtained by ultrafiltration and lyophilization in bulk.
Downstream processing applications are designed in order to address a multitude of client applications. Primary cell separation can be completed via centrifugation (Two AS-16 Super Sharples Centrifuges), or microfiltration (115 ft2 membrane surface area). Lysates are prepared utilizing a Gaulin 30CD homogenizer, with a maximum operating pressure of 15,000 psi. IEC Chromatography is available for purification/concentration, with columns ranging from 1 liter up to 50 liters. Ultrafiltration is available for final concentration of liquid formulations on a tangential flow platform using various NMWCO membranes.
Lyophilization and other bulk packaging protocols are also available depending on the scope of the project and the needs of the customer. We have found that many times our customers prefer to handle and control the high value added processes of preparing proprietary formulations and packaging of their final product. We do offer limited final fill operations and also partner customers with qualified vendors for special requirements relating to product packaging of our custom bulk reagents.