Devices and methods for transplanting cells in a host body are described. The cell comprises a porous scaffold that allows ingrowth of vascular and connective tissues, a plug or plug system configured for placement within the porous scaffold, and a seal configured to enclose a proximal opening in the porous scaffold. The device may further comprise a cell delivery device for delivering cells into the porous scaffold. The method of cell transplantation comprises a two step process. The device is incubated in the host body to form a vascularized collagen matrix around a plug positioned within the porous scaffold. The plug is then retracted from the porous scaffold, and cells are delivered into the vascularized space created within the porous scaffold.

The present invention relates to the use of scaffolds to enhance the viability of cells implanted in the integumentary system such that the cell may release an agent. The scaffold is capable of protecting the cell, as well as allowing for adequate nutrient delivery at the implant site through vascularisation in and around the scaffold.

Macroencapsulation devices and their methods of use are disclosed. In one embodiment, a macroencapsulation device may include a first outer membrane, a second outer membrane, and at least one semipermeable membrane disposed there between to form at least a primary compartment configured to house a first population of cells and a secondary compartment in fluid communication with the primary compartment through the first semipermeable membrane. In some embodiments, the flow of material into and out of the compartments of the macroencapsulation device and/or the application of an appropriate pressure differential between the compartments may be used to control the flow of filtrates, ancillary agents, and other materials between the compartments of the device when positioned in vivo.

The present invention relates to methods for encapsulating pancreatic progenitors in a biocompatible semi-permeable encapsulating device. The present invention also relates to production of human insulin in a mammal in response to glucose stimulation.

The invention relates to a metallic, nanoporous canister used to encapsulate cellular and/or biotherapeutic agents. The device is biocompatible and functions to wholly isolate a therapeutically active agent and/or cells therein. Their implantation, and survival in vivo, permits the local or systemic diffusion of their encapsulated cellular and/or biomolecular and therapeutics factors with the potential to promote repair of damaged or degenerated tissues in mammalian hosts, primarily humans.

An encapsulation device system for therapeutic applications such as but not limited to regulating blood glucose. The system may comprise an encapsulation device with a first oxygen sensor integrated inside the device and a second oxygen sensor disposed on an outer surface of the device, wherein the sensors allow for real-time measurements (such as oxygen levels) related to cells (e.g., islet cells, stem cell derived beta cells, etc.) housed in the encapsulation device. The system may also feature an exogenous oxygen delivery system operatively connected to the encapsulation device via a channel, wherein the exogenous oxygen delivery system is adapted to deliver oxygen to the encapsulation device.

Encapsulation devices, systems and methods are provided. In some embodiments, encapsulation devices for housing cells and providing various therapeutic benefits to a patient or host are provided. Encapsulation devices are provided that include a matrix or scaffold within a cell-receiving area or void, and methods of forming and preparing such a matrix are disclosed. Encapsulation devices that include channels are further provided, and the channels of the present disclosure are operable to convey fluid to internal areas of devices without restricting vascularization.

A bioartificial device, such as a bioartificial pancreas, for implantation in a patient's vascular system. The bioartificial pancreas includes a scaffold adapted to engage an interior wall of a blood vessel, a cellular complex support by the scaffold and extending longitudinally within the interior cavity of the scaffold so as to be exposed to the blood flow when the scaffold is engaged with the blood vessel, the cellular complex support comprising one or more pockets bordered by thin film; and cellular complex comprising pancreatic islets disposed in the one or more pockets, the thin film being adapted to permit oxygen and glucose to diffuse from flowing blood into the one or more pockets at a rate sufficient to support the viability of the islets. The invention also includes methods of making and using a bioartificial pancreas.

The present disclosure relates to implantable encapsulation devices for housing a biological moiety or a therapeutic device that contains a biological moiety. Particularly, aspects of the present disclosure are directed to an implantable apparatus that includes a distal end, a proximal end, a manifold including at least one access port positioned either at the distal end or the proximal end, and a plurality of containment tubes affixed to the manifold and in fluid communication with the at least one access port. Additionally, the encapsulation device may contain a flush port and a tube that are fluidly connected to the manifold. The containment tubes may contain therein a biological moiety (e.g., cells) or a therapeutic device (e.g. a cell encapsulation member).

Tissue engineering devices and methods employing scaffolds made of absorbable material for use in the human body for tissue genesis and regenerative and cellular medicine including breast reconstruction and cosmetic and aesthetic procedures and supplementing organ function in vivo.