Accelerating lipid nanoparticle workflows with flexible robotic automation

New technology demonstrates how automation can enhance versatility, scalability, and safety in dynamic laboratory environments.

Image Credit: Labman

Challenge

CPI encountered the challenge of developing a modular workflow for the preparation and assessment of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), essential processes for advancing intracellular drug delivery systems. The workflow required seamless integration of both novel and legacy laboratory instruments, while maintaining flexibility to meet evolving demands. CPI sought an automation solution that was collaborative, expandable, and capable of operating safely within an active laboratory setting.

Solution

Labman engineered and implemented a mobile robotic system customized to meet CPI’s requirements. The system incorporated a proof-of-concept workflow designed to adapt to new devices and processes over time. Prioritizing safety, Labman integrated sophisticated safety features, making the system intuitive and suitable for collaborative use in a busy laboratory setting.

Results

The introduction of Labman’s system allowed CPI to demonstrate state-of-the-art automation capabilities in the development of lipid nanoparticles. The modular design has proven invaluable, enabling rapid adaptation of workflows to emerging challenges and the integration of additional equipment and processes as needed.

This initiative marked over ten years of successful partnership between CPI and Labman, emphasizing the trust and innovation established throughout their collaboration.

Introduction

CPI is a UK-based technology and innovation center focused on turning concepts into market-ready products. As part of the High Value Manufacturing Catapult, CPI provides access to world-class expertise, facilities, and networks that drive innovation across areas including pharmaceuticals, food and feed, energy, and health technology.

At CPI’s National Formulation Center, the automation and digital team employs sophisticated robotic and digital technologies to accelerate product development while minimizing risk, supporting a more sustainable society.

The establishment of the Innovate UK-funded Intracellular Drug Delivery Center of Excellence created the need for an advanced automated platform to prepare and characterize lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) and other nanoparticulate drug delivery systems.

A mobile robot offered the perfect solution, balancing flexibility with the collaborative nature of the process. Despite some trade-offs in speed compared to custom-built industrial robots, the adaptability of the mobile robot met the project's diverse needs.

Lynn Donlon, Principal Scientist - Automation, CPI

Image Credit: Labman

CPI’s decade-long collaboration with Labman has been founded on reliability and success across numerous projects. For this endeavour, the integration of complex devices, custom software design, and stringent safety standards was critical.

As a trusted partner, we had confidence in the Labman team to be able to deliver all of these and go on this journey with us.

The project’s main objective was to establish an end-to-end workflow for LNP preparation and assessment. Due to budgetary and complexity constraints, a proof-of-concept workflow was developed instead, demonstrating the system’s adaptability and potential for future scalability.

Every project is a true collaboration, which was critical as we crafted the details of this complex workflow and how it would work using the ER-Flex.

Labman’s interactive training program provided the CPI team with information about everything from simple workflows to advanced integrations. The powerful technical solutions alongside Labman’s dedication to creating a positive working relationship left a memorable impression.

Image Credit: Labman

Shaping the future of automation

Lynn envisions mobile robotic platforms revolutionizing laboratory operations. These systems introduce new levels of versatility, enabling rapid reconfiguration and workflow expansion to meet evolving business needs, as well as the potential to work alongside laboratory researchers. As a neutral facility, CPI provides an ideal environment for showcasing such innovative technologies and methodologies.

CPI and Labman have recently collaborated on two other large-scale automation projects: a cutting-edge coating system designed primarily to support their clients in the battery industry, and an automated rheology platform. The mobile robot and digital infrastructure will link these platforms with CPI’s existing Labman Formulation platform, enabling sample transport between the systems and ultimately creating a closed-loop process for optimization of formulated products.

CPI’s partnership with Labman underscores the power of collaboration and innovation. Through adaptable automation systems, CPI continues to lead progress toward a more sustainable and efficient future in product development.

About Labman

Labman is a global leader in creating custom automated laboratory technologies, products, and software that empower and advance scientific discovery. We collaborate across diverse industries, including medical, pharmaceutical, agritech, paints and coatings, and FMCG, to deliver innovative solutions. From our state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities, Labman’s multi-disciplinary teams design, build, and support systems used worldwide, enabling groundbreaking science in leading laboratories every day.

Video Credit: Labman 

Sponsored Content Policy: News-Medical.net publishes articles and related content that may be derived from sources where we have existing commercial relationships, provided such content adds value to the core editorial ethos of News-Medical.Net which is to educate and inform site visitors interested in medical research, science, medical devices and treatments.