Bioartificial devices and cellular matrices therefor

Abstract

Abstract An implantable device for the effective release of therapeutically desirable entities including hormones, wherein a matrix containing a cellular moiety which produces a therapeutically desirable entity is encapsulated with a non-immunogenic polymeric material of poly-para-xylylene or other aromatic based moiety having a membrane portion with a porosity effective to block passage therethrough of immunogenic agents while permitting passage therethrough of nutrients for said cellular moiety and of the entity produced thereby; an improved matrix for the storage, manufacture, functional testing, and viral infection testing of cellular moieties comprising a collagen and aqueous nutrient based hydrogel with additives effective for limiting thermal and pressure trauma; and an improved method for the harvesting of cellular moieties from organ tissue by digesting the tissue in the presence of a nitric oxide inhibitor.

Inventors

• 👤 Anton-Lewis Usala

Bibliographic Details