Você precisa começar um novo experimento de cultura de células. Como escolher a melhor incubadora para o seu laboratório?

The type of cells is the most crucial factor to consider when selecting a bioreactor for your projects. It goes beyond simply acknowledging that different cells have unique requirements; it involves assessing the practicality of using an existing bioreactor that matches your specific cell type. It's essential to understand that not all cell types are compatible with bioreactors, making the initial evaluation of feasibility an indispensable step in the process. Take the time to thoroughly evaluate the feasibility before proceeding!

Consult with colleagues, review product specifications, and, if possible, seek recommendations from researchers with similar experimental needs to ensure you choose the most suitable incubator for your lab's specific requirements.

Different cell types are better suited to certain conditions. Think about the temperature, humidity, and CO2 levels that your cells need. Certain cell types may have different requirements, however mammalian cells typically need an atmosphere with 5% CO2 and 37°C. Make sure the incubator you select can produce and maintain an optimal conditions for your particular cells.

Did you know the best-selling drug, Humira, is made from cell culture? How can Humira be made at those scales? If from the beginning it is known that capacity is needed, I would discourage from solely using an incubator as a technology to grow cells. At large scales, dealing with flasks is very disadvantageous in that that a lot of manual manipulations are needed, risking each time for a mistake to happen. Instead, I would encourage to use bioreactors, which recently are even available for adherent cells by having them cells grow in microcarriers. In addition, the benefit of a bioreactor is that the level of control is much higher than the best incubator available and the measurements for a lot of parameters can be made real time.

I would approach the considerations of 'Capacity' and 'Space' as two separate steps in my decision-making process, with 'Space' being addressed as a later consideration. To begin with, after narrowing down a selection of bioreactor options tailored to my specific cell type, my initial focus would be on evaluating the required capacity. This assessment would take into account both current scale needs and potential future requirements.

One of the features to look for when choosing a CO2 incubator is the ability to customize each shelf. This feature lets you set the temperature, humidity, and CO2 levels for each shelf separately, according to what your cells like best. This way, you can make the most of your cell culture experiments, and avoid mixing up your cells.

Analyze the size of the laboratory space that is accessible and the scope of your cell culture experiments. Select an incubator that will be enough to meet your needs both now and in the future. Compact labs can benefit from benchtop incubators, which take up less room; bigger floor-standing units can accommodate larger experiments.

In my experience the biggest source of contamination is the water chamber that is used to control humidity. It is important to monitor this regularly and clean (or change water) regularly. Another option is to add fungacide to the water source.

In cases where I lack the necessary information regarding scale, I would turn to the Quality Target Product Profile (QTPP) of my projects. This comprehensive document is collaboratively generated by all stakeholders within the product development team and can provide valuable insights. However, based on our experience assisting CDMO clients in process development, we often find that the process development team may not have this document readily available, or if they do, it may be in a draft form without thorough development - lacking the depth needed to confidently inform decision-making.

Effective contamination control in cell culture relies on using incubators with features like copper interiors for sterilization, HEPA filters for clean air, and high-temperature cycles for chemical-free cleaning. Additionally, designs with stainless steel interiors and detachable shelves, along with in-chamber UV lights, enhance cleanliness. Segregated chambers, like the Cell Locker system, prevent cross-contamination. Regular maintenance and following cleaning protocols are crucial for maintaining a sterile environment during these sensitive processes.

Do not underestimate the power that contamination of gloves and coats can bring to the inside of your incubator. Besides keeping the coat and the environment clean while doing routine cleaning and disinfection of the incubator is crucial to not carry contaminations that can remain latent and invisible for a long time.

Opt for incubators with features like smooth stainless-steel interiors and detachable shelves that make cleaning and sterilizing them easier. Contamination can be avoided with the use of in-chamber UV lights or HEPA filters.

Think about adding features that improve experiment accuracy and user ease. The repeatability and simplicity of use of experiments are enhanced by features including customisable temperature and humidity profiles, data logging capabilities, and touchscreen interfaces. Examine if the incubator can meet the needs of your workflow, including access points for adding or deleting samples.

Take the financial limitations into account and create a balance with the essential characteristics. It's critical to stick to financial constraints even though purchasing a high-quality incubator is imperative.

Budgetary restrictions are a real-world factor. Analyse the incubator's price in proportion to the funds you have set aside. Take into account the model's and its accessories' accessibility as well, making sure that consumables and replacement parts are easily available. Add to the cost of periodic calibration and maintenance.

After a brief exploration or research on potential companies' websites, create a list of cell culture equipment aligning with your budget. Reach out to the shortlisted companies, not just to inquire about technical details but also about their service and pricing post-purchase. Compare the offers and choose the company that not only fits your budget but also meets the needs of both you and your cells.

To make sure you select the best incubator for your lab's unique needs, talk to other researchers, go over product specifications, and, if you can, get advice from scientists with comparable experimental requirements.