BIOREACTOR FOR CELL GROWTH AND ASSOCIATED METHODS

摘要

Apparatuses, systems, and methods are provided for growing and maintaining cells. A three-dimensional matrix, such as a hydrogel material, is seeded with cells and placed in a bioreactor having two compartments. The matrix is supported between the two compartments by first and second porous materials, which engage opposing surfaces of the matrix. A first media stream having certain properties is propagated through the first compartment, where it contacts one surface of the matrix via the first porous material. A second media stream having different properties is propagated through the second compartment such that it contacts the opposite surface of the matrix via the second porous material. Through migration of each stream at least partially into the matrix, various controlled gradients may be established within the matrix, encouraging growth of the cells. Such gradients include osmotic pressure, oscillating osmotic pressure, hydrostatic pressure, oxygen tension, and/or nutrient gradients.

主权项

1. An apparatus for growing and maintaining cells comprising:
a first compartment including a first inlet configured to alternately receive a first media solution and a third media solution, a first outlet in fluid communication with the first inlet, and a first porous material disposed within the first compartment; a second compartment including a second inlet configured to receive a second media solution, a second outlet in fluid communication with the second inlet, and a second porous material disposed within the second compartment; and a hydrogel material seeded with cells, disposed between the first compartment and the second compartment, and at least partially supported on a first surface of the hydrogel material by the first porous material and on an opposite second surface of the hydrogel material by the second porous material; wherein the first media solution is different from the second media solution, wherein the first and second compartments are configured such that propagation of the first media solution through the first compartment and propagation of the second media solution through the second compartment establishes a controlled gradient across a thickness of the hydrogel material, and wherein the third media solution has a different osmolality than the first media solution such that alternate propagation of the first and third media solutions through the first compartment creates an oscillating osmotic pressure gradient across the thickness of the hydrogel material.