Integrated flow-injection processing for on-line quantification of plasmidDNA during cultivation of E-coli

An integrated flow-injection processing (FIP) system for the quantification of plasmids during cultivation is described. The system performs on-line s ampling, cell lysis, and quantification of plasmids in an integrated manner during cultivation of E. coli. The system was operated by using a miniatur ized expanded-bed column which can be used for handling samples containing cells and cell debris without interfering with the binding analysis. Two ty pes of detectors (one measuring UV absorbance at 254 nm and a fluorometer) are used for online plasmid detection. The system was developed using stand ard solutions and it was successfully applied in monitoring plasmid content s during a cultivation of E. coli. (C) 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.