Agreement on Joint Development of Cell Culture Optimization Solution Combining Shimadzu's Media Analysis Technology and Our AI

Epistra, Inc. and Shimadzu Corporation have agreed to jointly develop a solution that streamlines cell culture condition optimization by measuring 125 media components via LC/MS/MS, estimating culture status, and generating experimental plans using Epistra’s experimental design AI “Epistra Accelerate.”

Background

Biopharmaceuticals demonstrate high therapeutic efficacy, but reducing manufacturing costs remains a challenge. By improving cell culture efficiency, it becomes possible to supply more affordable biopharmaceuticals to the public.

Technology Overview

Shimadzu’s LC/MS/MS method package enables simultaneous analysis of 125 components within 20 minutes, whereas previously, analyses were conducted separately for each compound group such as amino acids and vitamins.

Epistra Accelerate is an enhanced AI based on Bayesian optimization technology with a proprietary algorithm that addresses three challenges: high dimensionality, high noise, and high cost.

Proof of Concept

The proof-of-concept study was initiated at the MAB Association Kobe GMP Center, where culture supernatants are analyzed by LC/MS/MS and final antibody yields are estimated by AI.