The accelerating development of gene therapy from research towards
clinical trials and beyond has elevated the demand for practical viral
vector manufacturing solutions. The use of disposable upstream
technology is gaining traction in clinical manufacturing. The world's
first disposable, fully integrated, high-cell density fixed-bed
bioreactor was launched approximately one decade ago. By now, the
iCELLis fixed-bed technology has obtained the broadest customer base.
This system is available in small scale but also provides the largest
GMP compliant commercial system. However, there are several alternative
technologies, which have been widely used for the manufacturing of
different viral vectors, allowing for complementation within the market.
This article will review virus production using the latest disposable
fixed-bed bioreactors, present highlights of an interview with the
inventor of these bioreactors, and share some user experience. It is
predicted that single-use fixed-bed bioreactors will receive even more
attention in the field of viral vector manufacturing and
commercialization, especially with high virus yields.