In his presentation, Patrick Bongartz introduced the Bionic Bioreactor technology, developed by Biothrust, a small bioengineering company based in Aachen, Germany. Bongartz explained that the company, now comprising 28 employees, focuses on supporting academics and R&D departments in transitioning from 2D to 3D cell culture, offering both products and services. The company operates across Europe, the Middle East, and North America, and has already conducted a wide range of cell type cultivations.
Bongartz highlighted the limitations of traditional bubble aeration in cell cultivation, particularly for sensitive cell types such as stem cells and immune cells. He noted that bubble aeration can cause unwanted cell differentiation, cell rupture, and problematic foam formation. These challenges inspired the development of a new approach: membrane aeration. Unlike bubble aeration, membrane aeration uses hollow fibre membranes to deliver gases gently, closely mimicking the function of lungs or fish gills. This method allows for precise control of pH and dissolved oxygen, creating much milder conditions for cell growth and enabling the cultivation of even the most sensitive cells.
The One Reactor system is available in various sizes, from 300 millilitres to prototypes of up to 200 litres, with plans to scale up to 1,000–2,000 litres. The technology is designed for scalability, allowing users to move seamlessly from small-scale to larger-scale cultivation. Bongartz presented data demonstrating superior cell viability and expansion compared to classical systems, including successful trials with induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), cardiomyocytic organoids, and CHO cells. The system also supports efficient exosome and extracellular vesicle production.
Ongoing collaborations with academic and industrial partners continue to validate and expand the technology’s applications. Bongartz concluded by inviting further cooperation and discussion, emphasising the company’s commitment to advancing bioreactor technology for sensitive and scalable cell culture.
