In the culture apparatus, medium exchange, cell observation, and passage work of human iPS cells is automated using robot technology. The monitoring oft he shape of cells allows for optimal expansion time. Passages were repeated 20 times, and iPS cells could be cultured stably for 60 days. Due to the use of HEPA filters and UV light, cleanliness is equivalent to a class II safety cabinet. The prize of the machine is 50 million yen, and Panasonic expects to sell 5 units until the end of 2018.
Panasonic news release, August 23, 2017
Panasonic launches iPS cell automatic incubator