Transplantable artificial tissue
First Claim
1. A matrix composition comprising viable cells incorporated throughout a porous matrix of non-toxic biocompatible polymer substantially free from fibroblasts, said biocompatible polymer consisting essentially of the product of the polymerizations of a matrix polymer precursor and a reversible gel polymer, the matrix having a particle size of from 0.02 to 3 mm;
- a pore structure and size permitting cell movement throughout the matrix, movement of host cells into the matrix, diffusion of nutrients and macromolecules into and out of the matrix;
wherein the composition is free from encapsulation in a semi-permeable membrane.
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Abstract
A transplantable artificial tissue matrix structure containing viable cells which is suitable for insertion into the body is made by polymerizing precursors in an aqueous solution to form a shape retaining solid matrix comprising viable cells, matrix polymer and reversible gel polymer. The solution contains a matrix polymer precursor, a reversible gel polymer precursor, and viable cells. The reversible gel polymer is dissolved and removed to yield an insoluble, porous matrix containing viable cells. The conditions and reagents are selected to maintain the viability of the cells. The invention is particularly suitable for artificial transplant matrix tissue containing pancreatic islet cells.
133 Citations
7 Claims
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1. A matrix composition comprising viable cells incorporated throughout a porous matrix of non-toxic biocompatible polymer substantially free from fibroblasts, said biocompatible polymer consisting essentially of the product of the polymerizations of a matrix polymer precursor and a reversible gel polymer, the matrix having a particle size of from 0.02 to 3 mm;
- a pore structure and size permitting cell movement throughout the matrix, movement of host cells into the matrix, diffusion of nutrients and macromolecules into and out of the matrix;
wherein the composition is free from encapsulation in a semi-permeable membrane. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7)
- a pore structure and size permitting cell movement throughout the matrix, movement of host cells into the matrix, diffusion of nutrients and macromolecules into and out of the matrix;
Specification