Fermentation Media
The fermentation reaction is a complex transformation of material via the metabolic activity of micro-organisms or via an enzymatic reaction using enzymes obtained from micro-organisms. In 1977 N-Z-Amine™ A (enzymatically hydrolysed casein) was used in pioneering work with Charon phages as vectors for closing DNA in E.coli (Blattner, 1977). Since that time countless researchers have reported the use of N-Z-Amine™ A in both bench level and large-scale production of biopharmaceuticals.
Sheffield Bio-Science has a long history of being the number 1 global supplier of nitrogen sources into media for microbial expression of recombinant proteins. We are providing peptones in the production and/or feed media of 50% of the top 12 blockbuster drugs produced by Escherichia coli (data 2009).
Although most commercially available biopharmaceuticals are still manufactured using casein-based peptones, there is a clear trend towards non-animal media in this market. In the 1940’s, Sheffield introduced the first non-animal peptones based on soy based raw materials and expanded this product line in the early 90’s with yeast extracts and in 2002 with hydrolysates based on pea, rice, wheat gluten and cottonseed raw materials.
In 2005 we opened a GMO application lab in Amsterdam (Almere, The Netherlands) where we work with our in-house recombinant model systems and customer strains to optimize their media to reach maximum productivity.
In our application laboratory we have the resources to initiate and assist customers with media optimization projects. Media screening studies can be carried out at three levels:
• Quick screening for growth optimization in micro titer plates.
• Screening for growth and product formation in O2 and pH regulated flasks.
• Translation of shake flask results to fermentors to ensure customer compatibility.
Sheffield Bio-Science is the only media ingredients supplier worldwide that manufactures both yeast extracts and peptones. This provides us with the unique opportunity to supply total nitrogen source solutions optimized for maximum expression of recombinant product in specific expression systems.
It is our pleasure to complement your own expertise with ours, in designing a superior culture medium for your microbial expression system.
During registration of your new products or biosimilars our dedicated global Sheffield Bio-Science regulatory team is pleased to assist you with information needed for your registration files.