Scalable production of Super Refined Poloxamer 188 for robust bioprocess performance

Poloxamer 188 is a non-ionic triblock copolymer surfactant with an extensive application in pharmaceutical formulations across parenteral, oral, and topical applications. In biomanufacturing, it plays a critical role in mammalian cell culture as a shear stress protectant during upstream bioprocessing. Its amphiphilic structure, comprising a central hydrophobic poly(propylene oxide) (PPO) block flanked by hydrophilic poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) chains, confers the ability to shield cells from mechanical stress while maintaining optimal gas exchange and productivity in bioreactor systems. One persistent challenge in the market has been sourcing poloxamer 188 of reproducible quality suitable for large-scale bioprocesses. Multiple studies have consistently shown that variability in cell culture performance can lead to reduced biomolecule yield.