MEANS AND METHODS FOR CYTOMETRIC THERAPIES

摘要

A functionalized tip is incorporated into catheters for the cytometric de livery of cells into the brain and other body parts. For use in the brain, t he tip forms part of a neurosurgical probe having a proximal end and a dista l end. In addition to the functionalized tip, the probe has at least one cel l slurry delivery lumen and a plurality of optical fibers configured along t he probe, terminating in the tip to provide the photo-optical capability nee ded to monitor the viability and physiological behavior of the grafted cells as well as certain characteristics of the cellular environment. Details are also presented of the use of a neurocatheter having a cytometric tip of the type disclosed in the invention, as employed within the context of a feedba ck and control system for regulating the number of cells delivered to the br ain of a patient.