Bioreactor Produces 40 Million Immune Cells Weekly from Stem Cells

Researchers at Hannover Medical School (MHH) have developed a new bioreactor system. This system efficiently produces human immune cells, specifically macrophages, from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS cells). The method allows for the continuous production of these cells in medium-sized bioreactors.

Macrophages are vital components of the human immune system. They are known as "scavenger cells" and help defend against pathogens. They also play a role in repairing damaged tissue. These cells are already used in clinical therapies, such as treating liver diseases. Scientists are exploring their potential for treating infectious diseases, inflammation, fibrosis, cancer, and neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's disease. Macrophages are also useful for testing drug purity, safety, and efficacy.

Induced pluripotent stem cells are somatic cells that have been reprogrammed. They can develop into any cell type in the body. Previously, macrophage production was either small-scale for laboratory use or large-scale for industrial applications. Medium-sized bioreactors, which are cost-effective and easy to handle for preclinical research, were largely unavailable.

Professor Nico Lachmann's team at MHH developed the new technique. The iPS cells differentiate in a culture medium. They form cell aggregates called organoids within 14 days. These organoids resemble hematopoietic bone marrow.

The organoids continuously release macrophages. Each bioreactor can harvest up to 40 million immune cells per week. This production can continue for a period of ten weeks. The system combines four bioreactors in a single device. This technology offers a valuable tool for research into human immune cells and their medical applications.