Micro-Flow Imaging
Method Introduction
Micro-flow imaging (MFI) – officially called flow imaging microscopy (FIM) or dynamic imaging analysis (DIA) – is a well-established and frequently used technique for sizing, quantifying, visualizing, and, in some instances, identifying (sub-) visible particles. In MFI, bright-field images are captured in successive frames as a continuous sample stream passes through a flow cell positioned in the field of view of a microscopic system. The digital images of the particles in the sample are processed by image morphology analysis software that allows their quantification in size and count.
Coriolis operates several systems from suppliers, such as Micro-Flow Imaging, devices from ProteinSimple, and FlowCam systems from Fluid Imaging Technology. These instruments typically cover a size range from 1 to 200 µm or 1 to 400 µm respectively, while the upper particle concentration limit generally is higher than light obscuration systems. Besides enumerating the subvisible particles present in the sample, flow imaging microscopy provides information about particle morphology for particles larger than about 3-4 µm. This capability marks an inherent advantage of MFI over many other particle characterization techniques, as it may allow the identification of substances commonly present in biopharmaceuticals, such as silicone oil droplets.
Applications
MFI has become an established technique for subvisible particle analysis, though no monograph/specifications in the pharmacopeias exist. The instructional chapter USP<1787> mentions MFI as a possible orthogonal technique for subvisible particle analysis in addition to light obscuration. Even though MFI is also a light-based technique, it is typically superior to light obscuration in detecting particles with a refractive index close to the surrounding formulation.
MFI is primarily used as a research tool but has gained importance, for example, during troubleshooting to characterize further or identify subvisible particles detected by light obscuration. The technique also identifies silicone oil-like droplets in prefilled syringes or double-chamber cartridges. At Coriolis, MFI can be offered in full GMP compliance for, e.g., lot release testing.
Quality and Biosafety Level
We provide all our analytical services with the highest quality standards. Experienced scientists carry out each project, and a scientific reviewer comprehensively checks every report or data presentation.
We offer this technology with the following quality and biosafety levels:
Up to GMP Level
This method is available under GMP in dedicated labs with qualified equipment and full QA involvement.
Up to biosafety level 1
This method can be applied to proteins, nucleic acids, and most viral vectors, including AAVs and more.
Analytical Method Development, Qualification and Validation
For common sample types, we can often apply standardized methods with little setup effort. However, when needed, our experienced analytical experts create or optimize custom methods tailored to your active pharmaceutical ingredient, product type and development phase.
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