Seed train optimization for suspension cell culture

The purpose of a seed train is the generation of an adequate number of cells for the inoculation of a production bioreactor. This is time- and cost-intensive: From volumes used for cell thawing or cell line maintenance the cell number has to be increased. The cells are usually run through many cultivation systems which become larger with each passage (e.g. T-flasks, roller bottles or shake flasks, small scale bioreactor systems and subsequently larger bioreactors. Single-use systems may be applied and systems which are inoculated at a partly filled state and culture volume is increased afterwards by medium addition). The production bioreactor is inoculated out of the largest seed train scale.