Proud to present this application note, showcasing the improvements we’ve made to the BioConnect! As bioreactors evolve, we’ve kept pace to deliver an interface between any cell cultivation vessel and our Ovizio microscopes. The updates BioConnect design means this disposable, single-use connector is now suitable for all types of bioreactors and can provide you with a sterile, closed-loop system for real-time cell monitoring.
Improved BioConnect design and connectivity
Jérémie Barbau, Senior Application Scientist at OVIZIO Imaging Systems
Rue du Bourdon 100/2, 1180 BRUSSELS, BELGIUM
Jeremie.barbau@ovizio.com
OVIZIO’s BioConnect is a disposable, single-use fluidic interface between the bioreactor in which cells are cultivated and the iLine F microscope where they are imaged.
The previous version of the BioConnect used to be plugged directly onto the headplate of a benchtop, glass and steel bioreactor using a compression fitting. However, with the emergence of new cultivation methods, the BioConnect has evolved in order to accommodate not only benchtop bioreactors, but any type of cell cultivation vessel.
Previous version of BioConnect with a non-disposable benchtop vessel.
updated BioConnect with 2 types of endings: C-flex and PVC
The updated BioConnect is available with 2 types of endings: C-flex (ID: 0.125, OD: 0.250 inches) and PVC (ID: 0.118, OD: 0.164 inches), for easy and sterile welding. It always comes with a Male Luer lock to fit with any custom, lab-made vessels. All that is required is a deep line, from where the cells can be conveyed to the microscope, and a return line to bring the cells back to the vessel. BioConnects are delivered gamma-sterilized. If needed, BioConnects with C-flex endings can be assembled with the bioreactor in non-sterile conditions and be sterilized with the vessel afterward by autoclave. The PVC version is not autoclavable due to the properties of PVC.
Picture of a gamma-irradiated BioConnect with C-flex and dead plugs instead of Male Luer locks.
BioConnect pump and stand
The pump comes with its own stand, so that the whole assembly, pump and BioConnect can be placed next to the culture vessel with only two lines connected to the vessel.
BioConnect pump and stand
BioConnect with C-flex ending and Male Luer locks plugged into the pump
Possible interfaces depending on the bioreactor type
The following table shows the possible interfaces depending on the bioreactor type.
- Rocking motion bag with C-flex tubing
- Xuri (GE Healtcare)
- Benchtop bioreactor sterilized by autoclave
- Benchtop disposable Bioreactor
* Connection may be possible, depending on the vessel setup. For instance, for a benchtop bioreactor sterilized by autoclave, the user can decide to either add C-flex tubing to his vessel during assembly or Male Luer locks.
** Connection depends on the brand of the vessel. Some products may have PVC tubing available for welding
BioConnect function is not affected by the size of the vessel, it can be connected to anything from small-scale vessels (200mL) through to large vessels (1000L or larger).
Given the possibility of sterilizing the BioConnect by autoclave, the endings can be modified with different types of connectors to accommodate specific setups/processes. Consequently, a BioConnect can easily be connected to a stainless-steel vessel after
Sterilization-in-Place.
In conclusion, the BioConnect is a disposable, single use, autoclavable fluidic interface that enables movement of cells from any type of vessel to our iLine F for holographic imaging. It is suitable for all types of bioreactors and provides a sterile, closed-loop system for
real-time cell monitoring.