Fraunhofer Institute for Production Technology IPT
The demand for three-dimensional cell cultures and organoids is growing. At the same time, scalable and reproducible solutions that can be integrated into existing laboratory environments without complex specialized equipment are lacking. We offer a new approach.
Scaable and affordable
The Fraunhofer IPT and LIFE & BRAIN GmbH have developed a modular levitation bioreactor system that enables gentle and scalable cultivation of organoids. "MoLeBO" can be used in any standard incubator and integrated into existing laboratory automation software. Cultivation can be expanded step by step, with up to 20 culture vessels operated in parallel.
Cultivation tailored to your needs
The incubation vessel is moved contactlessly via magnetic coupling. Because no mechanical feedthrough enters the culture chamber, cleaning and sterilization are simpler. This also makes »MoLeBO« suitable for use in cleanroom environments.
No special equipment is required for operation in a standard incubator. Cultivation profiles can be configured in the software and executed reproducibly. This allows you to standardize experimental workflows, compare results, and transfer them to other sites.
From prototype to a validated system
"MoLeBO" is based on a patent held by Fraunhofer IPT. As part of the NRW Patent Validation programme, the technology was further developed from a laboratory prototype into an operational system. This involved redesigning the drive train, optimising materials and ergonomics, and developing a user interface. Manufacturability for future series production was also considered.
The system was then validated on three levels: long-term mechanical durability was demonstrated through continuous operation; LIFE & BRAIN GmbH carried out the biological validation; and users evaluated its usability in real laboratory workflows. In parallel, the prerequisites for CE certification were established and a translational strategy was developed to support transfer into practical application.
This transformed a patented technology into a validated system ready for practical use.