Akadeum Life Sciences
Revolutionizing Cell Separation with Microbubble Technology

In the realm of biotechnology and medical applications, cell separation plays a pivotal role. Its significance extends from therapeutic development to disease diagnosis, serving as the cornerstone for numerous breakthroughs. Despite the widespread use and critical role of cell separation, progress in this field has remained stagnant for the past two to three decades. This growing demand and limited options have left scientists searching for more effective solutions.

Traditional methods such as fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS^TM) and magnetic-activated cell sorting (MACS^TM) have long been the primary techniques for cell separation. However, they are burdened with significant limitations. These issues encompass inflexibility in application, potential harm to delicate cells and restricted scalability. These limitations have compelled researchers and clinicians to seek a revolutionary solution that can adapt to various cell types and workflows.

In response to these challenges, Akadeum Life Sciences has integrated a groundbreaking cell separation technology known as Buoyancy-Activated Cell sorting (BACS^TM) into its cell sorting process. BACS^TM represents a next-generation solution that transcends the limitations of traditional methods. It achieves this by harnessing the power of hollow, silica-shelled particles called microbubbles. These microbubbles usher in a new era of self-separation and isolation, addressing the isolation of a wide array of target cells, including T cells, B cells, and dead cells.

“BACS^TM simplifies cell separation by eliminating the need for a magnet, column, or microfluidics. In this process, microbubbles are gently introduced into the sample, where they selectively bind to the target cells, setting them apart from non-targeted cells,” says Crisha Barrett, a Field Applications Scientist at Akadeum Life Sciences. This innovative approach eliminates some of the major drawbacks associated with traditional methods.

As a result, the bubbles and attached target cells naturally rise to the top of the sample, while the non-targeted ones settle at the bottom. Researchers have the flexibility to harvest their desired cells either from the top (positive selection) or bottom (negative selection) of the sample. The flexibility of Akadeum’s collection mechanism and adaptability make BACS^TM a standout solution in the field.

Harnessing Microbubbles for Cell Separation

Akadeum’s microbubble technology is synonymous with adaptability, robustness, and scalability. These microbubbles seamlessly integrate into a wide spectrum of workflows, accommodating long-established traditional methods and cutting-edge innovations. A prime example of Akadeum further empowering scientists and therapy developers is its newly announced Alerion^TM Microbubble Separation System. This state-of-the-art instrument was designed to make workflows more efficient and flexible. The Alerion^TM, which is compatible with major processes already in use by cell therapy developers, removes bottlenecks and costs, with a patented cell separation process. Coupling Akadeum’s revolutionary new instrument with its innovative microbubble solution provides unparalleled capabilities to researchers and developers needing the most innovative tools available. This adaptability ensures Akadeum’s technology caters to the diverse needs of a broad user base, whether they rely on well-established practices or embrace novel techniques.

“By utilizing microbubbles, there are no limiting factors as it relies solely on gravity and buoyancy. As a result, an extensive number of cells can be processed within a compact vessel in one go. The cells are not subjected to excessive forces during separation, minimizing any potential damage to the cells and resulting in a higher production of viable cells with an increased yield,” says Dominique Badea, Ph.D., a Field Applications Scientist at Akadeum. This scalability and gentle approach set the company apart in the field of cell separation.

The microbubbles also seamlessly integrate with existing equipment, eliminating the need to invest in expensive new instruments. Clients can use the microbubbles right away with their current instrumentation, saving time and resources.

Akadeum adheres to a rigorous standardized procedure that supports production in line with the conditions mandated by Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). It offers various kits, such as the Human T Cell Selection, Activation, and Expansion Kit, the Human T Cell Leukopak Isolation Kit, the Dead Cell Removal Kit, the Human Red Blood Cell Depletion Microbubbles, and assays for nucleic acid extraction. These kits are designed to meet the diverse needs of researchers and clinicians.

“In particular, the Human T Cell Selection, Activation, and Expansion Kit stands out as the sole product available in the market that combines the functions of isolating, activating, and expanding T-cells into a single kit,” says Barrett.

The microbubble technology helps customers to improve their performance and workflow. Overall, this process can be completed within approximately ninety minutes or less and is extremely scalable.

This kit is particularly valuable for chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy development, allowing clients to streamline their workflows and improve the efficiency of T-cell activation and expansion.

Leading through Example

A California-based cell and gene therapy company had a requirement for a cell capacity of approximately 10 million cells, which is considered relatively low. Because of the limited quantity, they faced difficulties in utilizing other technologies for T cell activation and expansion during their recovery process.

Akadeum helped the group customize its protocol to ensure compatibility of the microbubble solution with their workflow. The solution’s gentle approach and scalability allowed the client to seamlessly incorporate the kit into their process. As a result, they achieved a high recovery rate and obtained the required number of cells to proceed with their workflow.

BACS^TM simplifies cell separation by eliminating the need for a magnet, column, or microfluidics. In this process, microbubbles are gently introduced into the sample, where they selectively bind to the target cells, setting them apart from non-targeted cells

This real-life example showcases how Akadeum’s technology can effectively address the specific needs and challenges of clients in the cell and gene therapy field.

Akadeum’s Proficient Team of Scientists

The company comprises over 20 life science experts who come from various educational backgrounds and have a strong understanding and empathy for their fellow scientists. They have experienced the challenges of daily laboratory work themselves, which enables them to offer effective assistance and support with a deeper level of understanding.

With the technical expertise present, the company possesses the understanding and necessary skills to generate ideas, innovations, and collaborations internally. The team’s diverse backgrounds, encompassing various industries and academia, allow it to provide different perspectives. Akadeum’s team of scientists is not only dedicated to innovation but deeply connected to the scientific community and its unique challenges.

“As a small, innovative technology company, our ability to quickly adapt and meet client needs is unparalleled. We take pride in the fact that our technology is patented, which gives our customers confidence in our solutions and showcases our capabilities. Our dedication to thorough research and our commitment to listening to the voice of the customer has resulted in a truly outstanding innovation,” says Badea. Akadeum is committed to advancing the field of cell separation and ensuring its innovative solutions meet the highest quality standards.