This phase II project proposes the development of an interpretable AI/deep learning system, that together with the hyperspectral imaging system detects cell viability, glucose and lactate…

Applied Imaging Solutions LLC received a $400,000 Cooperative Agreement from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) under the Science, Technology, Business and/or Education Outreach program (CFDA 11.620), awarded October 1, 2025, with a completion date of September 30, 2027. The awardee will develop an interpretable artificial intelligence (AI) and deep learning system integrated with a hyperspectral imaging platform designed to conduct label-free, contactless analysis of cell culture samples. The system will detect cell viability, glucose and lactate concentrations, and antibody glycosylation and aggregation using short-wave infrared (SWIR) spectral imaging of Chinese hamster ovary cells cultivated in fed-batch mode within a 3-liter bioreactor.

Phase II activities will focus on research and development to predict monoclonal antibody (MAB) quality attributes, including glycosylation, aggregation, and deamidation for real-time online quality control. The project includes a subaward to the University of Maryland, College Park. Upon completion, the technology is expected to advance the safe and efficient adoption of contactless AI/deep learning sensing systems for precise bioreactor environment control, with primary beneficiaries including advanced biologics manufacturers, healthcare information technology companies, and the broader life sciences industry.

Activities

Phase II activities to be performed will consist of research and development for predicting MAB quality attributes such as glycosylation, aggregation and deamidation for fine online quality control in real-time.

Expected outcomes

Outcomes resulting from this phase II project is expected to advance the safe and efficient adoption of contactless AI/deep learning sensing systems for fine control of a variety of bioreactor environments.

Intended beneficiaries

Advanced biologics manufacturers, healthcare IT companies, and the life sciences industry.

Subrecipient activities

The applicant has proposed to make a subaward to university of maryland, college park.