Sonobioreactors: using ultrasound for enhanced microbial productivity

Enhanced metabolic productivity of microbial, plant and animal cells in bioreactors can greatly improve the economics of biotechnology processes. Ultrasound is one method of intensifying the performance of live biocatalysts. Ultrasonication is generally associated with damage to cells but evidence is emerging for beneficial effects of controlled sonication on conversions catalyzed by live cells. This review focuses on the productivity enhancing effects of ultrasound on live biological systems and the design considerations for sonobioreactors required for ultrasound-enhanced biocatalysis.