A membrane-based purification process for cell culture-derived influenza A virus.

A simple membrane-based purification process for cell culture-derived influenza virus was established that relies on only two chromatographic unit operations to achieve the contamination limits required according to regulatory authorities. After clarification and concentration, a pseudo-affinity membrane adsorber (sulfated cellulose, SCMA) was applied for virus capture. The subsequent polishing step consisted of a salt-tolerant anion exchange membrane adsorber (STMA) to bind residual DNA.

A flow-through chromatography process for influenza A and B virus purification.

Vaccination is still the most efficient measure to protect against influenza virus infections. Besides the seasonal wave of influenza, pandemic outbreaks of bird or swine flu represent a high threat to human population. With the establishment of cell culture-based processes, there is a growing demand for robust, economic and efficient downstream processes for influenza virus purification.