FloDesign Sonics, a global provider in acoustic cell processing for cell and gene therapies, has launched its first product in the ekko platform line to support cell and gene therapy manufacturing. Based on FloDesign Sonics’ technology, ekko represents a product family using acoustics to address typical as well as unique applications associated with cell and gene manufacturing. This disruptive platform has the ability to process cells in a gentle and efficient way compared to traditional mechanical methods such as centrifugation or spinning membranes. 
           
The first product in the ekko platform has been specifically developed for concentrate and washing applications throughout the process. It is applicable to a range of processes, including single cell suspensions such as T-cells, and cell aggregates that are typically found in pluripotent stem cell cultures. The ekko platform is a closed and automated system that processes continuously. Whether preparing an apheresis product for its downstream steps or harvesting cells from a bioreactor, flexible control and design allow for a wide range of process input and final concentrations, yields and process time, according to the company. Applications also include buffer exchange and formulation, volume reduction down to 5ml, and single cell depletion for aggregate cell cultures.