![Initially designed for gene therapy manufacturing, the new benchtop helps address the operational complexities associated with long production timelines, regulatory requirements, operator training, and therapy-specific needs, according to Asahi Kasei. [Gorodenkoff/Getty Images]](https://www.genengnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/GettyImages-2196602690.jpg "Getty-2196602690")
Asahi Kasei Bioprocess will unveil its VANTIJ® SU-VFC benchtop at Bioprocess International (BPI) East in Boston this week. This new small-format system is designed to deliver automated, single-use virus filtration for laboratory-scale and process development applications. The system will be available on site at Booth 606.
The instrument is the first benchtop-scale platform in Asahi Kasei Bioprocess’s VANTIJ family. The system extends the automation and operator-focused design principles of the existing portfolio while simplifying virus filtration processes, according to the company.
Its design accommodates workflows using 0.12 m² or 0.3 m² Planova™ 35N virus-removal filters. The VANTIJ simplifies small-scale Planova virus filtration while maintaining the process control and data-focused capabilities expected in biopharmaceutical development, explains an Asahi spokesperson.
Initially designed for gene therapy manufacturing, the new benchtop helps address the operational complexities associated with long production timelines, regulatory requirements, operator training, and therapy-specific needs, continues the company official, who adds that the system offers clear setup through a guided shadow-board layout, tool-free tube set installation and replacement, intuitive connection points, and recipe-driven software. It also enables batch reporting and supports the execution of key filtration processes.
“The biopharmaceutical industry continues to pursue more efficient pathways for bringing innovative therapies to patients,” said Chris Rombach, president of Asahi Kasei Bioprocess America. “The VANTIJ SU-VFC Benchtop reflects Asahi Kasei Bioprocess’s commitment to supporting manufacturers with solutions that simplify critical process steps.”
Rombach explains that the fluid management business unit of Asahi Kasei Bioprocess focuses on solving therapeutic product safety, efficiency, and purity challenges within the pharmaceutical and bioprocessing industries. With technology platforms for virus filtration, chromatography, inline buffer formulation and oligonucleotide synthesis, the company’s bioprocessing systems, columns, and automation solutions advance GMP manufacturing of critical drug substances around the world, he continued.
BPI East attendees can visit Booth 606 in Boston from September 22nd to 25th.
