Ultrafiltration membrane, device, bioartificial organ, and related methods

摘要

The present invention relates to ultrafiltration. In particular, the present invention provides nanoporous membranes having pores for generating in vitro and in vivo ultrafiltrate, devices and bioartificial organs utilizing such nanoporous membranes, and related methods (e.g., diagnostic methods, research methods, drug screening). The present invention further provides nanoporous membranes configured to avoid protein fouling with, for example, a polyethylene glycol surface coating.

主权项

1. An ultrafiltration system comprising:
a) a membrane consisting of a plurality of nanofabricated slit shaped pores having a width less than 20 nanometers, wherein said plurality of nanofabricated slit shaped pores are arranged in a rectangular configuration on said membrane, wherein said rectangular configuration is at least a 2:1 arrangement of said nanofabricated slit shaped pores on said membrane, wherein said nanofabricated slit shaped pores are arranged in the center of said membrane, wherein the distance between said nanofabricated slit shaped pores on said membrane is around 50 nm, wherein the thickness of the membrane is approximately 500 nm, wherein the membrane has a porosity around 20%; b) a housing containing said membrane; and c) a fluid delivery passageway with a first end and a second end, said first end positioned outside of said housing, said second end positioned to deliver fluid across said membrane.