Zhimei Du, Ph.D., Principal Scientist, Cell Culture Development & Manufacturing, Teva Pharmaceuticals USA

We identified a novel approach which can control cell growth and improve specific productivity, as well as product quality simultaneously. Results demonstrate that the cell proliferation is consistently controlled in all recombinant cell lines throughout the production processes with specific productivities increased to as much as 110 pg/cell/day. Additionally, glycan processing is improved by decreasing high mannose and increasing mature G1 and G2 glycoforms. Molecular mechanisms of the related signaling pathways have been studied and will be discussed.

Jie Chen, Ph.D., Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton

The clinical and commercial success of monoclonal antibodies has led to the need for large-scale production in mammalian cell culture. Our low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (the claims of U.S. patent were allowed) increases production of antibodies in both hybridomas and CHO cells by stimulating the cells. Up to 60% increase in antibody production in hybridoma cells, and up to 25% increase in CHO cells have been achieved within a few days of stimulation.