Upstream Processing

Upstream processing is the first stage of biomanufacturing, where living cells are grown to produce a biological product.

It begins with optimizing the growth media by adjusting the amounts of carbon, nitrogen, vitamins, and trace elements.

Next, a preselected microorganism or genetically engineered host that yields the maximum product is chosen.

The organisms are first thawed from preserved stocks and cultured under suitable growth conditions in sterile culture media containing optimal levels of nutrients.

After incubation in culture flasks, they are transferred to small seed bioreactors and sequentially scaled up to develop an inoculum.

Once enough growth is achieved, the inoculum is transferred to larger bioreactors, where fermentation takes place, and conditions like pH, temperature, dissolved oxygen, and agitation are precisely regulated.

Sensors and automated control systems continuously monitor these parameters and make real-time adjustments to ensure optimal growth.

Once the desired biomass or product concentration is achieved at the end of fermentation, downstream processing is initiated for product recovery and purification.