Asahi Kasei Bioprocess, a subsidiary of global diversified company Asahi Kasei, will introduce its new VANTIJ SU-VFC Benchtop system at Bioprocess International East (BPI EAST) 2026, showcasing an automated, single-use virus filtration platform designed for laboratory-scale and process development applications.

 

The new system will be on display from September 22–25 in Boston, Massachusetts.

 

The VANTIJ SU-VFC Benchtop is the first benchtop-scale platform in Asahi Kasei Bioprocess’s VANTIJ product family. The company says the compact system is designed to bring automation, process repeatability and operator-focused functionality to small-scale virus filtration workflows while simplifying the use of Planova virus-removal filters.

 

The system supports workflows using 0.12 m² and 0.3 m² Planova 35N virus-removal filters and is designed to provide greater process control and data capabilities for biopharmaceutical development.

 

Initially developed with gene therapy manufacturing applications in mind, the VANTIJ SU-VFC Benchtop is aimed at addressing operational challenges associated with lengthy production timelines, regulatory requirements, operator training and the specialized needs of emerging therapies.

 

The system features a guided shadow-board layout intended to simplify setup, along with tool-free tube-set installation and replacement, intuitive connection points and recipe-driven software. It also supports batch reporting and consistent execution of critical 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 while delivering the confidence and reliability associated with Planova virus filtration and the Asahi Kasei name."

 

The launch comes as Asahi Kasei continues to focus on cell and gene therapies, a rapidly evolving segment of the biopharmaceutical industry. The company has identified these emerging modalities as a strategic focus within its Healthcare sector and as part of its broader Life Science growth strategy.