Researchers from the KTH Royal Institute of Technology (Sweden) used enzyme-constrained genome-scale models (ecGEMs) to redesign the anaerobic metabolism of Saccharomyces cerevisiae for the co-production of 2,3-butanediol and glycerol. Seed cultures were prepared using the INFORS HT Minitron incubator shaker before fermentation experiments, enabling validation of model predictions through bioreactor cultivation and proteomic analysis. The study demonstrated that engineered yeast cells could achieve high glucose uptake rates by reallocating cellular resources toward glycolysis, highlighting the potential of ecGEMs as a powerful tool for metabolic engineering and strain development.

Researchers from the Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering and the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Delaware (USA) developed a transcriptomic workflow called MemorySeq to identify stress-responsive biomarkers in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells exposed to manufacturing-related stress conditions. Using the INFORS HT Minitron incubator shaker for controlled CHO cell cultivation, the study identified 199 genes with heritable transcriptional variability linked to stress adaptation, apoptosis regulation, and metabolic pathways. These findings provide new insights into engineering more stress-tolerant CHO cell lines for improved biopharmaceutical manufacturing performance.

Buying used laboratory equipment can reduce upfront costs and improve short-term flexibility. However, when evaluating a used incubator shaker, laboratories must consider contamination risk, service history, manufacturer support status, and long-term cost of ownership. A structured assessment ensures that short-term savings do not introduce long-term operational instability.

Contamination remains a persistent risk in incubation workflows, with the potential to compromise experimental results, delay timelines, and require costly repeat work. Even brief exposure during routine handling or access can introduce unwanted particles that affect culture integrity and reproducibility. The Multitron Incubator Shaker with the integrated HEPA filtration system is designed to help laboratories maintain consistent air quality throughout incubation. By providing continuous air purification and measurable performance, INFORS HT supports reliable cultivation conditions that reduce the risk of contamination-related interruptions and help keep research on track.