Freeze & Thaw

In the biopharmaceutical sector, the utilization of F-Gases is on a decline. However, the need for cryopreservation of drug substances will remain. In order to contribute to a more environmentally friendly freezing of drugs, more sustainable technologies need to be developed and applied. But is sustainable freezing even possible?

The preservation of cells at cryogenic temperature can be achieved using different techniques. This is far from a simple freezing process; it's a carefully controlled method that prevents the formation of ice crystals, thus maintaining the integrity of the biological material.

This guide provides an overview of the necessary steps and considerations for preparing cells for cryopreservation. Key topics include selecting appropriate cells, cultivating and harvesting them under controlled conditions, utilizing proper cryoprotective agents, and applying specific freezing techniques.

Cell thawing is a critical procedure in the area of life science and medicine. Ensuring a gentle thawing of frozen cells is essential for preserving their viability and functionality. In this article, we will highlight the cell thawing process, discuss common challenges, and provide recommendations for achieving optimal results in cell banking. 

It is many decades since cryovessels emerged as a groundbreaking solution in the biopharmaceutical industry, enabling the safe and efficient storage of bulk drug substances. However, the introduction of plate-based freezing methods has further advanced the technology available for the freezing of biopharmaceuticals, offering improved product quality and consistency.

Not all biopharmaceuticals are suitable for freeze-drying. Depending on the specific stability requirements the preservation of biopharmaceuticals is either with cryopreservation or lyophilization.

New technologies, sauch as plate-based freezing and thawing based on single-use systems, improve process efficiency and product quality. Innovative solutions are breaking the ice for the evolution of bulk drug freezing.

Spray drying often leads to product losses of mAbs or vaccines of more than 30%. Plate-based freezing and thawing solutions enable controlled handling of bulk intermediates safely in a vendor-independent, modular and scalable fluid and cold chain management process. 

The filling and freezing of large volumes for fermentation is an essential part during different production steps in upstream and downstream processing.  In the following, we will explain why it is important to act fast and how an optimization of the process can be achieved. 

As expert for cold chain handling in bioprocessing, Single Use Support is providing solutions to meet challenges for safe storing and shipping associated with right freezing and thawing methods and temperature control for long-term storage. Their development approach leads to innovative systems that enable manufacturers to replace manual processes with fully automated end-to-end processes that not only push efficiency but also increase output.

For drug substances that undergo a freezing process during manufacturing, thawing at some point is only a logical consequence. However, there are several factors to be considered for this seemingly easy procedure – find out more in this article!

Freezing large volumes of drug substance can be a challenging endeavor. In this article, we will discuss main considerations as well as possible solutions for this delicate process.