Cell Culture Optimization Software 'CellTune Ver.2' Launches Globally

Epistra Inc. announces that “CellTune Ver.2,” the updated version of the cell culture optimization software co-developed with Shimadzu Corporation, has been launched globally on June 29. The software uses LC-MS analysis data from Shimadzu’s liquid chromatograph-mass spectrometer to identify optimal culture conditions — including media composition and culture environment — via AI. While the previous version (Ver.1) was sold exclusively in Japan as an on-premises installation, the new version introduces cloud-based and subscription-based delivery. Shimadzu Corporation and Shimadzu Diagnostics Corporation (SDC; Taito-ku, Tokyo) will also expand their CellTune Ver.2-optimized custom media manufacturing services to overseas markets.

Cell culture-based manufacturing of antibody drugs and cell therapies is time-intensive and involves high media costs, making large-scale production inherently challenging. Key parameters in cell culture — such as concentrations of amino acids, vitamins, and other media components, and environmental conditions such as temperature — have significant impact on outcomes. Epistra and Shimadzu co-developed a culture condition optimization solution: “CellTune,” launched in September 2024, which analyzes 144 components in culture supernatants using Shimadzu’s LC-MS and the “LC/MS/MS Method Package Cell Culture Profiling Ver.3.” The system extracts impactful parameters via a “Feature Extraction Module” and proposes optimal conditions via an “AI Automatic Optimization Module.”

Key Features of the New Version

1. Enhanced and Expanded Optimization Capabilities

Epistra’s AI optimization algorithm “Epistra Accelerate” embedded in CellTune has been updated, reducing the number of experiments required for condition search by 40% compared to Ver.1. The new version also supports searching under complex optimization constraints that restrict experimental conditions.

2. Pre-Assessment of Optimization Difficulty

A simulation-based feature has been implemented to estimate the probability of optimization success in advance. This allows researchers to revisit high-difficulty plans before executing experiments, enabling more efficient optimization workflows with less wasted effort.

3. Cloud & Subscription for Global Expansion

The new version eliminates the need to maintain on-premises PC and network infrastructure (including backups) required in the previous version, lowering the barrier to adoption. Subscription terms of 1 to 3 years are available to align with individual research and development plans.

Product Details and Pricing

Product name: Cell Culture Optimization Software “CellTune”

Suggested retail prices (tax included):

• Trial plan: ¥154,000/month
• 1-year plan: From ¥2,992,000
• 2-year plan: From ¥5,940,000
• 3-year plan: From ¥8,140,000
• On-premises: ¥6,600,000

Related Links

• Agreement on Joint Development of Cell Culture Condition Optimization Solution (published 2022)
• Announcement of Cell Culture Optimization Software “CellTune” Launch (published 2024)
• Interview on the Background of CellTune Co-Development (published 2025)