The startup has developed a scalable cell separation technology utilizing multiplexed microfluidic devices for industrial-scale liquid particle processing, including cell separation and pathogen concentration. This technology offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional methods such as filtration, flow centrifugation, and flocculation, significantly enhancing throughput and efficiency in various industries.
Funding
$4.7M raised to dateRaised to date based on public sources. This may differ from the amount the company actually raised and is based only on what is publicly available on the internet.
TVFounders
Product
Problem
Current biomanufacturing processes face bottlenecks in downstream processing, particularly in cell separation and clarification, due to limitations in scalability, yield, and cell viability using traditional methods like centrifugation and microfiltration. These methods often struggle to maintain permeability and can damage sensitive cell types, leading to reduced product recovery and increased costs.
Solution
uFraction8 provides a next-generation bioseparation technology based on multiplexed microfluidic devices that enables ultra-scalable and high-yield liquid particle processing. Their technology utilizes precisely patterned microchannels arranged in stacks and manifolds to ensure uniform flow distribution, allowing for the processing of high volumes of liquid while maintaining 100% permeability. This low-shear separation technique preserves the integrity and viability of cells, making it suitable for mammalian cell lines, stem cells, microalgae, and flagellates. uFraction8's modular approach allows for seamless scaling from laboratory to production, addressing the challenges of biopharmaceutical production, including monoclonal antibody and viral vector manufacturing.
Target Audience
uFraction8's primary customers are biomanufacturers in the biopharmaceutical, food, and biotech industries who require efficient, scalable, and gentle cell separation and clarification solutions for cell cultures.
Features
- Multiplexed microfluidic chips arranged in scalable stacks for high-throughput processing
- Low-shear separation mechanism to maintain cell viability and integrity
- Hydrodynamic flow-based separation, eliminating issues of pore constriction and adsorption
- Demonstrated >99% yield and maintained permeability over long durations
- Modular design for easy scaling from lab to production volumes
- Compatibility with continuous flow perfusion culture systems
- Constructed with SS316L wettable components for safe processing of various liquids