In-line mammalian cell concentration measurement with a Bio Cell Vitality Analyzer

Background Cell cultivations in a 30L bioreactor were in situ and on-line monitored using the Bio Cell Vitality Analyzer (BCVA, Sequip S+E, Düsseldorf, Germany). Based on the technique of optical reflectance measurement the BCVA is able to detect mammalian cells by combining reflectance measurement with a three dimensional moving focus point and a time of flight measurement. The aim of the experiments was to verify the process usability of the BCVA in bioreactor cultivation. Furthermore the BCVA shall be compared with the two already established Casy and Cedex devices (both Roche, Basel Switzerland). In contrast to the Cedex and Casy where a sample preparation is necessary the BCVA is able to measure the cells in situ. Moreover the particle distribution over time can be plotted.