Using bioprocess containers for cell isolation

Cell isolation is a fascinating step within bioprocessing and is essential for research and development across many industries, especially the pharmaceutical sector.

Advances in bioscience have made cell isolation a focal point for the development of new medicines or treatments, so all the necessary steps must be taken to ensure it is completed safely and efficiently.

Part of this includes storing your bioprocessing fluids for cell isolation securely in bioprocess containers, which we’ll explore more throughout this article. 

So, to find out more about cell isolation and the benefits bioprocess containers offer, keep reading!

Cell isolation

 Cell isolation, also known as cell separation, is a crucial step within the upstream stage of bioprocessing that isolates specific cell populations from a mixture of cells or tissue. 

Isolating cells is especially important in life sciences and medical research, as it allows the study of a particular cell’s function without other cell types or environmental conditions affecting results, providing more accurate findings.

It’s vital for:

• Cell-based research and transfer processes
• Disease modelling
• Stem cell therapy research
• Drug development

Cell isolation methods

There are numerous different cell isolation techniques available, which target one or more cell properties, enabling the separation of the desired cell. 

The isolation method you choose must align with the characteristics of your desired cell. With this in mind, here are the most common cell separation techniques utilised in bioprocessing.

PBMC cell isolation 

PBMC cell isolation focuses on separating peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from other blood components, such as red blood cells (RBCs). 

The most common PBMC separation method is density gradient centrifugation. This technique involves adding blood to a buffer solution of a specific density and spinning at high speed to isolate the lower-density PBMCs from the higher-density RBCs.

MACS cell isolation

MACS cell isolation, short for magnetic-activated cell sorting, uses a magnetic field and a cell suspension to separate cell mixtures using their surface antigens.

Magnetic beads are covered with antibodies designed to bind to the antigens of the target cell, which are added to the cell suspension, along with the cell population. The mixture is then incubated.

After incubation, a magnetic field is passed through, where the cells will bind to the beads, isolating them from the rest.

RNA cell extraction

RNA cell isolation or extraction is the process of isolating ribonucleic acid (RNA) from cells, which can be used to create mRNA-based therapies and study gene expression. 

RNA can be extracted using several processes, including magnetic particles, lysis techniques, or centrifugation methods.

How can bioprocess containers benefit cell isolation and extraction?

Whatever your cell isolation method or intentions, one thing is for sure – you need a durable and hygienic container system to keep process fluids safe and uncompromised. 

A secure and reusable bioprocess container can be used to house single-use bags containing fluids such as:

• Culture media
• Buffer solutions
• Separation media
• Cell suspensions
• Sample collections

Why choose ALLpaQ for bioprocess containers?

If quality craftsmanship from an ISO 9001-certified company is what you’re looking for, one of our bioprocess containers is the perfect choice. 

All the outer packaging units we offer are designed in-house by our technical specialists and fabricated by our plastic welding team.

Benefits of ALLpaQ bioprocess containers

• Strength-to-weight ratio – Made from robust yet lightweight poly materials, our packaging units keep bioprocess fluids safe and are super-simple to handle. Plus, unlike traditional stainless steel models, they’re lighter and cheaper to ship.
• Cleanroom suitability – Thanks to their smooth, easy-to-clean, hygienic plastic walls, our cleanroom containers are suitable for sterile environments where contamination prevention is key.
• Eco-friendly – As they can be recycled after their long life cycle, our reusable solutions are ideal for companies looking to reduce their carbon footprint. Plus, as an EcoVadis Gold and ISO 14001- certified company, you’re investing in a business committed to continually bettering environmental practices.

• Custom solutions – If your bag requirements are unique and our standard models can’t meet your needs, our expert team can manufacture a custom bioprocess container that can. 
• Space-saving design – Stackable with a pallet base, our packaging units are ideal for efficient warehouse storage. They’re also collapsible,  designed to fold away when not in use, freeing up more space around your facility.

Get in touch with our experts

Thinking about upgrading your bioprocessing setup? Maybe your current packaging units are too costly to ship? If so, you’ve come to the right place.

From our manufacturing hub in the UK, we’ve provided all kinds of businesses across the globe, especially within the pharmaceutical industry, with high-quality, reusable bioprocess containers designed for regulated environments. And, as with ALLpaQ custom solutions, you’ll always receive a container system that meets your exact specifications!
If you’d like to know more, you can call our helpful team on 01472 800 373 or contact us online and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.

Author

Niamh Allen

As a dedicated and detail-oriented Marketing Assistant, Niamh brings a strong passion for creativity and analytics to the marketing team.

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