| The objectives of this project were three fold. Firstly, it was desired to develop a fed-batch feeding control system, including protocols and software that is capable of obtaining high cell density consistently and robustly. The second objective is to design and construct an in situ, multi-parameter, realtime, fiber optic probe to monitor the fed-batch fermentation cultures. The third objective is then to evaluate the probe's culture monitoring capabilities up to high cell densities with special focus on the detection of cellular growth, metabolic state, and product formation.; Results of the fed-batch feeding control software indicate the ability to reach high cell densities consistently and robustly. Cell densities in the range of 80-150 (OD600) were routinely achieved with cell densities in excess of 200 (OD600) also being common. Testing of the optical probe over the entire range of cell densities indicated the applicability of system to detect cell density, metabolic shifts, and fluorescent protein product formation. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)... |
