Bioreactor and Cryotechnology Innovations in Drug Discovery

This research news document outlines advancements in drug discovery processes through the use of bioreactor research and cryotechnologies. It describes the challenges faced in clinical trials where drug candidates often fail due to serious side effects, primarily when tested on animal-derived cell cultures. The introduction of human induced pluripotent stem (hiPS) cells, derived from human tissue, provides a more reliable testing model. The researchers at Fraunhofer Institute have developed methods for optimizing the production of these cells in bioreactors, allowing for large-scale generation of functional cells. Additionally, the document details innovative cryopreservation techniques that ensure the viability of these cells for future testing. These advancements aim to replace traditional in vitro tests and enhance the safety and efficiency of drug candidate development for various diseases. The research is part of the R2U-Tox-Assay project, which received funding under the EU’s EIT Health initiative.