Monmouth Scientific Class 2 Biological Safety Cabinets enhance sterility and efficiency at Molecular Devices’ new Life Science facility.
Molecular Devices, a global leader in life sciences and 3D biology, has launched a life-science facility in Cardiff focused on the research, development, and large-scale production of organoids. The organoid structures, derived from human stem cells, simulate human organs and play a critical role in advancing drug discovery. By offering more human-centric models, organoids provide accurate predictions for the safety and efficacy of new therapeutic compounds, which can reduce the high failure rates often seen in clinical trials.
Sterility & Contamination Control
The ability to manufacture organoids at such a large scale is unprecedented. It promises to streamline the drug discovery process by accelerating the transition from research to medical applications. To maintain stringent sterility and contamination control, essential for the integrity of organoid production, Molecular Devices installed Guardian Class 2 Biological Safety Cabinets (Microbiological Safety Cabinets – MSCs) from Monmouth Scientific. Since organoids are delicate and susceptible to contamination, even minor particulate matter can significantly affect their quality. The Class 2 MSCs ensure a clean, sterile environment for the manipulation of cell cultures by utilising advanced filtration and airflow systems that protect both the user and the cultures.
In addition to the safety cabinets, the facility features advanced air filtration systems and strict laboratory protocols. Personnel follow contamination control measures, including wearing non-particulating suits, sterile clogs, and hair nets, along with using an air shower entry system to minimise particulate exposure.
Processes & Experiments
Inside the Class 2 MSCs, Molecular Devices’ scientists perform a variety of tasks vital to organoid production, such as custom organoid expansion projects for clients, research and development on organoid growth optimization, and refining organoid characterization techniques like immunohistochemical staining. Collaborations with global teams also focus on enhancing 3D imaging and automation technologies to further improve organoid research and its applications.
Impact on Workflow & Efficiency
The incorporation of Class 2 MSCs has greatly enhanced the workflow and efficiency at the Cardiff facility. Before the availability of such safety cabinets, tissue culture work was often done on open lab benches, which posed a high risk of contamination. The organoid production process is labour-intensive and time-consuming, making contamination disastrous, resulting in batch failures and significant financial losses. Each Class 2 MSC provides an independent sterile workspace, reducing the risk of cross-contamination and ensuring the large-scale, reliable production of organoids.
Experience with Monmouth Scientific
Molecular Devices has had a positive experience working with Monmouth Scientific. Elizabeth Fraser, Strategy Partner at Molecular Devices, noted that the collaboration with Monmouth ensured the timely installation and commissioning of the safety cabinets, critical to the facility’s success. Monmouth Scientific also provides ongoing maintenance and service, ensuring the cabinets’ performance remains optimal. The project has been instrumental in the establishment and successful operation of the facility, advancing industrial-scale organoid production and drug discovery.
For more information on Monmouth Scientific’s clean air solutions and sustainable recirculating technology, visit www.monmouthscientific.co.uk or join the team at Lab Innovations on Stand F30 as part of the SDI Group Lab Equipment Division.
Read more about the Class 2 Biological Safety Cabinet here.
ENDS
NOTES FOR EDITOR:
Enquiries:
Michael Skidmore, Marketing Manager
+44 (0) 1278 555160
mskidmore@monmouthscientific.co.uk
About Monmouth Scientific:
Monmouth Scientific’s core expertise lies in environmentally responsible and sustainable recirculating technology, offering specialised clean air solutions including fume cupboards, laminar flow cabinets, biological safety cabinets, powder containment, and ISO class cleanrooms, providing optimal protection and performance for personnel and processes.
Our solutions cater to a diverse range of industries, including life science and research, pharmaceutical manufacturing, pathology and microbiology, aerospace and industrial manufacturing.
Image Caption:
A Monmouth Scientific Class 2 Biological Safety Cabinet in operation at Molecular Devices’ new life science facility, designed for the industrial-scale production of organoids.https://monmouthscientific.co.uk/product/biological-safety-cabinets-class2/
