cytena’s single-cell printer uses an imaging system and object recognition algorithms to detect cells in a single-use dispenser cartridge. Droplets are produced similar to inkjet printing. Cells are classified in the nozzle and subsequently dispensed directly into well plates. High viability has been observed for several cell lines.

The isolation of single cells is prerequisite for biopharmaceutical production, especially in cell line development as well as for genetically analysis for cancer and stem cell research.

Comparable to an inkjet printer, the single-cell printer (scp) dispenses free-flying microdroplets, which are delivered automatically to any cell culture plate.

High-resolution microscope images of the dispenser nozzle are automatically processed to ensure printing of single living cells. Regulatory bodies request manufacturers to prove the clonality of a producer cell line.

cytena developed a patented technology specifically for the process of proven single-cell isolation in cell line development. A cell analysis algorithm detects cells, their position, size and morphology.

With this information, the system can predict the content of each droplet and print droplets containing exactly one cell. Droplets with no or multiple cells are not printed on the substrate as they are removed by a vacuum system. For each individual well of the well-plate an image sequence is stored, tracing the cell’s movement to the dispenser nozzle and the cell’s ejection. Furthermore the process parameters and operator inputs are stored together with the cell images in a protected data set.

The sample is simply pipetted into the sterilized disposable cartridge and is not in contact with anything else before it is dispensed into the well. Cross-contamination can therefore be prevented. The system fits in any standard laminar flow bench to allow for subsequent long-term, sterile cell culture. The entire workflow is very gentle to the processed cells and yields extraordinary high cell viability. Clonal recovery rates for CHO, HEK and L292 cells of around 80 % were observed. The printing of single-cell into a 96-well plate takes typically 5 minutes. The system holds two 96- or 384-well plates at one time.

KEY FEATURES
• Confidently isolate single cells and provide consistent, high-quality image evidence of monoclonality to the FDA

• Highly efficient single-cell sorting with an average printing efficiency >80%

• Achieve an average of 75% cell viability with gentle handling of cells—comparable to limiting dilution method

• Minimize cross contamination through disposable cell printing cartridges

• Fast turnaround time—prints a 96-well plate within 2-3 minutes