Modelling size distribution changes of plant cell aggregates during batch growth of Capsicum frutescens suspension culture

• Combined particle size distribution, Monod kinetics and intra-particle diffusion theory.
• Obtained parameters from batch experiments with Capsicum frutescens cell cultures.
• Computer simulations predicted trends of experimental aggregate size distribution.
• Model and algorithms can be used as a starting point for other biological aggregates.

The aim of this work was to develop a theoretical model and its computer simulation for the prediction of plant cell aggregate size distribution change with time in batch suspension cultures. We combined the theory of the particle size distribution with the Monod kinetics to describe the plant cell aggregate growth. Since plant cell aggregates can grow to be large, we also included in the model the option to account for the intra-particle molecular diffusional resistance to glucose which was the carbon substrate needed for growth. We obtained the values of the kinetic parameters from the batch growth of Capsicum frutescens (chilli pepper) cell cultures. The maximum specific growth rate was 0.31 day–1 and the Monod constant 16.67 g L–1. We also measured the aggregate size distributions during batch growth which covered a range of 0.25–7.5 mm. Despite the simplifying assumptions, the simulated size distribution curves followed the experimental trends reasonably. The intra-aggregate mass transfer resistance became important only for the later stages of the batch culture. The model and computer algorithms can serve as a starting point and can be adapted to investigate other plant, animal and microbial systems that show aggregated growth behaviour.

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