Multichamber bioreactor with bidirectional perfusion integrated in a culture system for tissue engineering strategies

摘要

The invention discloses a novel bioreactor apparatus integrated in a culture system which may be used in cell seeding, expansion and differentiation under highly controlled and monitored conditions. The bioreactor apparatus (1) is a multichamber perfusion device featuring an innovative construct retention mechanism and a medium flow distribution chamber. When integrated in the bioreactor system herein described, the bioreactor apparatus can be utilized for enhancing and directing cellular growth and differentiation by establishing a dynamic culture environment. It is capable of homogenously and simultaneously exposing several two- or three-dimensional cell/tissue constructs to shear stress through the perfusion of culture medium which may be perfused uni- or bi-directionally. The culture system is self-contained, being independent and self-sufficient concerning the establishment of its inner temperature and medium gaseous composition. The system also integrates devices for continuous monitoring and control of culture parameters, and quantification of various biochemical compounds dissolved in the perfused culture medium.