Aseptic Technologies and Sartorius connect
Belgian company Aseptic Technologies, an affiliate of GSK Biologicals, has entered into a strategic alliance and global distribution agreement with Germany-based Sartorius for a novel aseptic liquid transfer system technology.
Developed by Aseptic Technologies, the system consists of an optimised transfer port and disposable presterilised connection device to facilitate risk-free transfer of sterile liquid to and from a contained area with a minimal amount of ergonomic manipulation. Applications include transfer from an external area to a cleanroom, transfer from within a cleanroom to isolators used as barriers and transfer inside incubators. The principle is based on the La Calhene concept of the transfer port and uses a gamma-sterilised connection device consisting of a plastic hose barb connector inside a removable protective sheath. The opening of the port inside the contained area releases only the sterile part of the device, allowing easy and safe connection of tubing and transfer of liquid. The device can be installed on various container types, such as gamma-sterilised containers (e.g. collapsible bags) or steam-sterilised containers (e.g. stainless steel and glass vessels). "While Aseptic Technologies has capabilities and know-how in the development of new technologies to improve the sterility assurance level of aseptic processes, Sartorius has the capabilities and the experience to make such a technology available to manufacturers from various areas, such as the pharmaceutical, biotech and food industries," said Benoit Verjans, Aseptic Technologies' commercial director. "Given the current industry emphasis on disposability and, particularly, the explosion of companies using bag technology for liquid storage and handling, this innovation will provide the industry with even greater opportunities to reduce manufacturing cycles, production costs and contamination rates," added Reinhard Vogt, Sartorius' senior vice-president, sales and marketing, biotechnology division. Under the terms of the agreement, Sartorius will hold the exclusive rights to market and distribute Aseptic Technologies' sterile liquid transfer system globally. The companies will also commit resources to jointly develop the products to meet market expectations.