ASEPTIC TISSUE PROCESSING METHOD, KIT AND DEVICE

Abstract

The present invention concerns a single use aseptic kit comprising: a disaggregation module for receipt and processing of material comprising solid mammalian tissue; and a stabilisation module for storing disaggregated product material, wherein each of the modules comprises one or more flexible containers connected by one or more conduits adapted to enable flow of the tissue material there between; and wherein each of the modules comprises one or more ports to permit aseptic input of media and/or reagents into the one or more flexible containers. The invention further relates to an automated device for semi-automated aseptic disaggregation and/or enrichment and/or stabilisation of cells or cell aggregates from mammalian solid tissue comprising a programmable processor and the single use aseptic kit. The invention further relates to a semi-automatic aseptic tissue processing method.

Claims

1: A single use aseptic kit comprising: a disaggregation module for receipt and processing of material comprising solid mammalian tissue; and a stabilisation module for further processing and/or storing disaggregated product material, wherein each of said modules comprises one or more flexible containers connected by one or more conduits adapted to enable flow of the tissue material there between, and wherein each of said modules comprises one or more ports to permit aseptic input of media and/or reagents into the one or more flexible containers, wherein the kit further comprises a digital, electronic, or electromagnetic tag identifier relating to a specific program that defines a type of disaggregation, enrichment, and/or stabilisation process and use of one or more types of media in the process(es).

2: The single use aseptic kit of claim 1, wherein the one or more flexible containers comprise a resilient deformable material.

3: The single use aseptic kit of claim 1, wherein the one or more flexible containers of the disaggregation module comprises one or more sealable openings.

4: The single use aseptic kit of claim 3, wherein the flexible container of the disaggregation module comprises a heat sealable weld.

5: The single use aseptic kit of claim 1, wherein the one or more flexible containers comprises internally rounded edges.

6: The single use aseptic kit of claim 1, wherein the one or more flexible containers of the disaggregation module comprises disaggregation surfaces adapted to mechanically crush and shear the solid tissue therein.

7: The single use aseptic kit of claim 1, further comprising an enrichment module comprising one or more flexible containers, wherein the enrichment module is configured for filtration of disaggregated solid tissue material and segregation of non-disaggregated tissue and filtrate and comprising, wherein the enrichment module is connected to the stabilisation and desegregation modules by one or more conduits adapted to enable flow of the tissue material, and wherein the one or more flexible containers of the enrichment module each comprise a filter that is configured to retain a retentate of cellularised disaggregated solid tissue.

8: The single use aseptic kit of claim 1, wherein the one or more flexible containers of the stabilisation module comprises media formulation for storage of viable cells in solution or in a cryopreserved state.

9. (canceled)

10. (canceled)

11: The single use aseptic kit of claim 7, wherein the same flexible container forms part of one or more of the disaggregation modules, stabilisation modules, and/or enrichment modules.

12: The single use aseptic kit of claim 11, wherein the disaggregation module comprises a first flexible container for receipt of the tissue to be processed.

13: The single use aseptic kit of claim 12, wherein the disaggregation module comprises a second flexible container comprising the media for disaggregation.

14: The single use aseptic kit of claim 13, wherein the enrichment module comprises a first flexible container and a third flexible container configured to receive enriched filtrate.

15: The single use aseptic kit of claim 14, wherein both the disaggregation module and the stabilisation module comprise a second flexible container and wherein the second container comprises digestion media and stabilisation media.

16: The single use aseptic kit of claim 15, wherein the stabilisation module comprises a fourth flexible container comprising stabilisation media.

17: The single use aseptic kit of claim 16, wherein the stabilisation module also comprises the first flexible container and/or the third flexible container for storing and/or undergoing cryopreservation.

18: Use of the single use aseptic kit according to claim 1 in a semi-automated process for the aseptic disaggregation, stabilisation, and enrichment of mammalian cells or cell aggregates.

19: An automated device for semi-automated aseptic disaggregation, enrichment, and/or stabilisation of cells or cell aggregates from mammalian solid tissue comprising: a programmable processor; and a radio-frequency identification tag reader, wherein the programmable processor is configured to recognise a single-use aseptic kit in accordance with claim 1 using the tag reader and is adapted to subsequently execute a kit-specific program, wherein the program defines the type of disaggregation, enrichment, and/or stabilisation processes and the media type(s) required for use in the process(es).

20-21. (canceled)

22: The automated device of claim 19, wherein the programmable processor is adapted to communicate with and control one or more of: the disaggregation module; the enrichment module; and the stabilisation module.

23: The automated device of claim 22, wherein the programmable processor controls the disaggregation module to enable a physical and/or biological breakdown of the solid tissue material.

24: The automated device of claim 23, wherein the programmable processor controls the disaggregation module to enable a physical and enzymatic breakdown of the solid tissue material.

25: The automated device of claim 24, wherein the enzymatic breakdown of the solid tissue material is by one or more media enzyme solutions selected from collagenase, trypsin, lipase, hyaluronidase, deoxyribonuclease, Liberase H1, pepsin, or mixtures thereof.

26: The automated device of claim 19, wherein the programmable processor controls disaggregation surfaces within the disaggregation flexible containers that mechanically crush and shear the solid tissue and wherein the disaggregation surfaces are mechanical pistons.

27: The automated device of claim 19, wherein the programmable processor controls the stabilisation module to cryopreserve the enriched disaggregated solid tissue in the container using a programmable temperature.

28: The automated device of claim 19 wherein the device further comprises one or more of the additional components in any combination: sensors capable of recognising whether a disaggregation process has been completed in the disaggregation module prior to transfer of the disaggregated solid tissue to the enrichment module; weight sensors configured to determine an amount of media required in the containers of one or more of the disaggregation module; the enrichment module; and/or the stabilisation module and to control the transfer of material between respective containers; sensors to sense temperature within the containers of the one or more of the disaggregation module; the enrichment module; and/or the stabilisation module; at least one bubble sensor to control the transfer of media between the input and output ports of each container in the module; at least one peristaltic pump to control the transfer of media between the input and output ports; pressure sensors to assess the pressure within the enrichment module; one or more valves to control a tangential flow filtration process within the enrichment module; and/or one or more clamps to control the transfer of media between the input and output ports of each module.

29: The automated device of claim 19, wherein the programmable processor is adapted to maintain an optimal storage temperature range in the stabilisation module until the container is removed; or executes a controlled freezing step.

30: The automated device of claim 19, further comprising a user interface.

31: The automated device of claim 23, wherein the interface comprises a display screen to display instructions that guide a user to input parameters, confirm pre-programmed steps, warn of errors, or combinations thereof.

32: The automated device of claim 19, wherein the automated device is adapted to be transportable.

33: A semi-automatic aseptic tissue processing method comprising: automatically determining aseptic disaggregation tissue processing steps and their associated conditions from a digital, electronic, or electromagnetic tag identifier associated with the aseptic processing kit of claim 1; placing a tissue sample into a flexible plastic container of the disaggregation module of the aseptic processing kit; and processing the tissue sample by automatically executing the one or more tissue processing steps by communicating with and controlling the disaggregation module; the optional enrichment module; and the stabilisation module.

34: The single use aseptic kit of claim 1, further comprising an enrichment module for filtration of disaggregated solid tissue material and segregation of non-disaggregated tissue and filtrate.

35: The single use aseptic kit of claim 1, wherein the specific program defines use of a freezing solution for controlled rate freezing in the stabilisation module.

Description

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0061] The processing of tissue to cells according to the kit, semi-automated device and methods of present disclosure are described further in the accompanying examples and figures numbered 1 to 7.

[0062] Moreover, by utilising the kit, device and processes described herein, in conjunction with ordinary skills in the art, further embodiments of the present disclosure can be readily identified. Those skilled in the art will readily understand known variations.

Definitions of the Disclosure

[0063] Unless defined otherwise, technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs.

[0064] depletion as used herein refers to a process of a negative selection that separates the desired cells from the undesired cells which are labelled by one marker-binding fragment coupled to a solid phase.

[0065] disaggregation or disaggregate as used herein refers to the transformation of solid tissue into a single cells or small cell number aggregates where a single cell as a spheroid has a diameter in the range of 5 m, 6 m, 7 m, 8 m, 9 m, 10 m, 20 m, 30 m, 40 m, 50 m, 60 m, 70 m, 80 m, 90 m, 100 m or more where this is more usually between 7 to 20 m.

[0066] cellularised or cellularisation as used herein refers to the process of disaggregation where by the solid tissue a multicellular material generally made up of multiple cell lineages/types is broken down into small numbers of cells including but not limited to one cell but could be multiple cells of various lineages or cell types in very small numbers i.e. clump of cells or cell aggregates.

[0067] engineered as used herein refers to either addition of nucleic material or factors which change the tissue derived cell function from their original function to have a new or improved function for its ultimate utility.

[0068] filtrate as used herein refers to the material that passes through a filter, mesh or membrane.

[0069] flexible container as used herein refers to a flexible packaging system in multiple formats with one or more different types of film. Each film type is selected to provide specific characteristics to preserve the physical, chemical, and functional characteristics of the sterile fluids, solid tissue derived cellular material and the container integrity depending upon the step of the process.

[0070] freezing solution or cryopreservation solution also referred in the field to as the cryoprotectant is a solution that contains cryoprotective additives. These are generally permeable, non-toxic compounds which modify the physical stresses cells are exposed to during freezing in order to minimise freeze damage (i.e. due to ice formation). Most commonly a % Vol/Vol of one or more of the following: Dimethylsulphoxide (DMSO); Ethylene glycol; Glycerol; 2-Methyl-2,4-pentanediol (MPD); Propylene glycol; Sucrose; & Treha lose.

[0071] media means various solutions known in the art of cell culturing, cell handling and stabilisation used to reduce cell death, including but not limited to one or more of the following media Organ Preservation Solutions, selective lysis solutions, PBS, DMEM, HBSS, DPBS, RPMI, Iscove's medium, X-VIVO, Lactated Ringer's solution, Ringer's acetate, saline, PLASMALYTE solution, crystalloid solutions and IV fluids, colloid solutions and IV fluids, five percent dextrose in water (D5W), Hartmann's Solution. The media can be standard cell media like the above mentioned media or special media for e.g. primary human cell culture (e.g. for endothelia cells, hepatocytes or keratinocytes) or stem cells (e.g. dendritic cell maturation, hematopoietic expansion, keratonocytes, mesenchymal stem cells or T cell expansion). The media may have supplements or reagents well known in the art, e.g. albumins and transport proteins, amino acids and vitamins, antibiotics, attachments factors, growth factors and cytokines, hormones, metabolic inhibitors or solubilising agents. Various media are commercially available e. g. from ThermoFisher Scientific or Sigma-Aldrich.

[0072] non-labelled or untouched as used herein refers to the cells which are not bound by one marker-binding fragment coupled to a solid phase. The non-labelled, untouched cell fraction contains the desired target cells.

[0073] non-target cells as used herein refers to cells which are specifically bound by one marker-binding fragment which is coupled to a solid phase that is used to remove an unwanted cell type.

[0074] positively separated as used herein refers to the active separation of cells which are bound by one marker-binding fragment coupled to a solid phase and these cells are the required population of cells.

[0075] negatively separated as used herein refers to the active separation of cells which are bound by one marker-binding fragment coupled to a solid phase and these cells are not the required population of cells.

[0076] purity as used herein refers to the percentage of the target population or populations desired from the original solid tissue.

[0077] regenerative medicine(s), adoptive cell therapy(ies) or advanced therapy medicinal product(s) are used interchangeably herein to refer to cellular material that is used for therapeutic purposes of one or more mammals either by: the action of a part of or all of the cellular material; the supportive actions of a part of or all of the cellular material with the aim to improve the wellbeing of the mammal after application. The therapeutic cells can either be used directly or may require further processing, expansion and/or engineering to provide these actions.

[0078] sample as used herein refers to a sample containing cells in any ratio. Preferentially, these cells are viable. But, these cells can also be fixed or frozen cells which may be used for subsequent nucleic acids or protein extraction. The samples may be from animals, especially mammals such as mouse, rats or humans. Any compressible solid tissue that contains cells can be used. The invention is illustrated mainly through the isolation of hematopoietic and cancer cells from solid tumour tissue. However, the invention relates to a method for isolation of a breadth of cells from any mammalian solid tissue.

[0079] marker as used herein refers to a cell antigen that is specifically expressed by a certain cell type. Preferentially, the marker is a cell surface marker, so that enrichment, isolation and/or detection of living cells can be performed.

[0080] solid phase as used herein refers to the coupling of the marker-binding fragment, e.g. an antibody, bound to another substrate(s), e.g. particles, fluorophores, haptens like biotin, polymers, or larger surfaces such as culture dishes and microtiterplates. In some cases the coupling results in direct immobilization of the antigen-binding fragment, e.g. if the antigen-binding fragment is coupled to a larger surface of a culture dish. In other cases this coupling results in indirect immobilisation, e.g. an antigen-binding fragment coupled directly or indirectly (via e.g. biotin) to a magnetic bead is immobilised if said bead is retained in a magnetic field. In further cases the coupling of the antigen-binding fragment to other molecules results not in a direct or indirect immobilization but allows for enrichment, separation, isolation, and detection of cells according to the present invention, e.g. if the marker-binding fragment is coupled to a chemical or physical moiety which then allows discrimination of labelled cells and non-labelled cells, e.g. via flow cytometry methods, like FACSsorting, or fluorescence microscopy.

[0081] solid tissue as used herein refers to a piece or pieces of animal derived mammalian solid tissue which by its three dimensions i.e. length, breadth and thickness as a geometrical body is larger than the size of multiple individual cell based units and often contains connective materials such as collagen or a similar matrix that make up structure of the tissue whereby said solid tissue cannot flow through tubes or be collected by a syringe or similar small conduit or receptacle and is i.e. with dimensions in the range of 500 m, 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 1 cm, 2 cm, 3 cm, 4 cm, 5 cm, 10 cm, 20 cm, 30 cm or more

[0082] particle as used herein refers to a solid phase such as colloidal particles, microspheres, nanoparticles, or beads. Methods for generation of such particles are well known in the field of the art. The particles may be magnetic particles or have other selective properties. The particles may be in a solution or suspension or they may be in a lyophilised state prior to use in the present invention. The lyophilized particle is then reconstituted in convenient buffer before contacting the sample to be processed regarding the present invention.

[0083] magnetic in magnetic particle as used herein refers to all subtypes of magnetic particles which can be prepared with methods well known to the skilled person in the art, especially ferromagnetic particles, superparamagnetic particles and paramagnetic particles. Ferromagnetic materials are strongly susceptible to magnetic fields and are capable of retaining magnetic properties when the field is removed. Paramagnetic materials have only a weak magnetic susceptibility and when the field is removed quickly lose their weak magnetism. Superparamagnetic materials are highly magnetically susceptible, i.e. they become strongly magnetic when placed in a magnetic field, but, like paramagnetic materials, rapidly lose their magnetism.

[0084] marker-binding fragment as used herein refers to any moiety that binds preferentially to the desired target molecule of the cell, i.e. the antigen. The term moiety comprises, e.g., an antibody or antibody fragment. The term antibody as used herein refers to polyclonal or monoclonal antibodies which can be generated by methods well known to the person skilled in the art. The antibody may be of any species, e.g. murine, rat, sheep, human. For therapeutic purposes, if non-human antigen binding fragments are to be used, these can be humanized by any method known in the art. The antibodies may also be modified antibodies (e.g. oligomers, reduced, oxidized and labelled antibodies). The term antibody comprises both intact molecules and antibody fragments, such as Fab, Fab, F(ab)2, Fv and single-chain antibodies. Additionally, the term marker-binding fragment includes any moiety other than antibodies or antibody fragments that binds preferentially to the desired target molecule of the cell. Suitable moieties include, without limitation, oligonucleotides known as aptamers that bind to desired target molecules (Hermann and Pantel, 2000: Science 289: 820-825), carbohydrates, lectins or any other antigen binding protein (e.g. receptor-ligand interaction).

[0085] retentate as used herein refers to the material that does not pass through a filter, mesh or membrane.

[0086] ultimate utility as used herein refers to manufacture of or direct use in regenerative medicines, adoptive cell therapies, ATMPs, diagnostic in vitro studies or scientific research.

[0087] With reference to FIG. 1 there is disclosed: [0088] 1a Flexible container for: disaggregation; and digestion in the embodiment involving enzymatic digestion. [0089] 1b Open end for transfer of solid tissue materials into container 1a [0090] 1c hanging holes to support container 1a [0091] 1d target heat weld location to seal container 1a using heat welder 13m [0092] 1e rounded edges on internal container 1a surfaces to reduce losses which may occur as part of transfer to examples illustrated in FIG. 2 (a, b or c) or FIG. 3 (a or b) [0093] 1f tubing 1f enables media 3a to be transferred into container 1a via sterile filter 2a [0094] 1g in example tubing 1g enables digestion enzymes 3b to be transferred into container 1a via sterile filter 2b [0095] 1h after disaggregation, especially involving enzymatic digestion a phase of incubation, the mixture is transferred out via tubing 1h via filter unit 4a containing filter 4b prior to entering [0096] 2a spike and sterile filter for media 3a [0097] 2b spike and sterile filter for enzymes 3b in one example, where enzymes are required [0098] 3a media for disaggregation and in one example enzymatic digestion [0099] 3b enzymes for disaggregation in one example [0100] 4a flexible filter unit [0101] 4b non-disaggregated tissue filter [0102] 5a tubing clamp to allow media (3a) to enter the flexible container 1a via filter 2a [0103] 5b in one example where enzymes are used a tubing clamp will allow enzymes (3b) to enter the flexible container 1a via filter 2b [0104] 5c tubing clamp to allow contents of flexible container 1a to pass via filter 4a into one or more examples identified in FIG. 2 (a-c) Or FIG. 3 (a or b) [0105] FIG. 2a provides a further example of the invention in which: [0106] 2c spike and sterile filter for media [0107] 3a in one example short term storage media [0108] 3c freezing solution a media required for cryopreservation in one of the examples illustrated in FIG. 2a or FIG. 3b [0109] 4c in one example an additional flexible filter module containing filters 4d & 4e [0110] 4d in one example FIG. 2a a flexible filter unit may be required for additional size segregation of cell/tissue clumps [0111] 4e in one example FIG. 2a a flexible filter unit is required to retain cells but allow the media/cell fragments to be washed out [0112] 5d in one example FIG. 2a tubing clamp is in place to stop material from container 1a that has passed though 4a & 4c from returning back to container 1a [0113] 5e in one example FIG. 2a tubing clamp is in place to allow waste material from container 1a that has passed through 4a, 4c and 4e to enter container 6a but stop media (3a or 3c) entering via filter 2c from entering container 6a [0114] 5f both tubing clamps stop material from container 1a that has passed though filters 4a, 4c and 4e from entering the tubing to the media container (3a or 3c) or transferring to one of the examples FIG. 3 (a or b) before the waste has passed into container 6a via 5e. Once the waste has been depleted then tubing clamps 5e and 5d close and both tubing clamps 5f allowing media (3a or 3c) to transfer cells within filter 4e into one of the examples identified in FIG. 3 (a orb) [0115] 6a a waste container [0116] 6b hanging holes to support container 6a [0117] FIG. 2b provides yet a further example in which: [0118] 5g a tubing clamp in place to allow contents of container 1a to enter the flexible container 7a via filter 4a [0119] 5h a tubing clamp in place to allow contents of container 7a to pass through filter 8a retaining and enriching for cells while allowing waste and debris to pass through filter 8b into container 6a with the pressure controlled by valve 8c before the enriched cells return to container 7a via an open clamp 5i [0120] 5i a tubing clamp is in place to allow contents of container 7a via open tubing clamp 5h to pass through filter 8a retaining and enriching for cells while allowing waste and debris to pass through filter 8b into container 6a with the pressure controlled by valve 8c before the enriched cells return to container 7a [0121] 5j after cell enrichment has occurred then tubing clamp 5h closes and 5j opens allowing contents of 7a to pass on to one of the examples FIG. 3 (a or b) [0122] 6a a waste container [0123] 6b hanging holes to support container 6a [0124] 7a a flexible container to receive the contents of: 1a via filter 4a; and filter 8a [0125] 7b hanging holes to support container 7a [0126] 7c rounded edges on internal container 7a to reduce losses which may occur as part of transfer to examples illustrated in FIG. 3 (a or b) [0127] 7d tubing to allow container 7a to receive the contents of: 1a via filter 4a; and filter 8a [0128] 7e tubing to allow contents of container 7a to pass through filter 8a retaining and enriching for cells while allowing waste and debris to pass through filter 8b into container 6a with the pressure controlled by valve 8c before the enriched cells return to container 7a via an open clamp 5i [0129] 7f tubing to allow contents of container 7a via open tubing clamp 5h to pass through filter 8a retaining and enriching for cells while allowing waste and debris to pass through filter 8b into container 6a with the pressure controlled by valve 8c before the enriched cells return to container 7a [0130] 8a contents of container 7a can be filtered to remove waste media and debris via filter [0131] 8b while enriching for cells under the control of valve 8c before returning to container 7a [0132] 8b & 8c see 8a

[0133] In one example, as shown in FIG. 2c it is described that [0134] 5g a tubing clamp in place to allow contents of container 1a to enter the flexible container 7a via filter 4a [0135] 5h a tubing clamp in place to allow contents of container 7a to pass through filter 9a retaining and enriching for cells while allowing waste and debris to pass through filter 9b into container 6a with the pressure controlled by valve 9c before the enriched cells return to container 7a via an open clamp 5i [0136] 5i a tubing clamp is in place to allow contents of container 7a via open tubing clamp 5h to pass through filter 9a retaining and enriching for cells while allowing waste and debris to pass through filter 9b into container 6a with the pressure controlled by valve 9c before the enriched cells return to container 7a [0137] 5j after cell enrichment has occurred then tubing clamp 5h closes and 5j opens allowing contents of 7a to pass on to one of the examples FIG. 3 (a or b) [0138] 6a a waste container [0139] 6b hanging holes to support container 6a [0140] 7a a flexible container to receive the contents of: 1a via filter 4a; and filter 9a [0141] 7b hanging holes to support container 7a [0142] 7c rounded edges on internal container 7a to reduce losses which may occur as part of transfer to examples illustrated in FIG. 3 (a or b) [0143] 7d tubing to allow container 7a to receive the contents of: 1a via filter 4a; and filter 9a [0144] 7e tubing to allow contents of container 7a to pass through filter 9a retaining and enriching for cells while allowing waste and debris to pass through filter 9b into container 6a with the pressure controlled by valve 9c before the enriched cells return to container 7a via an open clamp 5i [0145] 7f tubing to allow contents of container 7a via open tubing clamp 5h to pass through filter 9a retaining and enriching for cells while allowing waste and debris to pass through filter 9b into container 6a with the pressure controlled by valve 9c before the enriched cells return to container 7a [0146] 9a contents of container 7a can be filtered to remove waste media and debris via filter 9b while enriching for cells under the control of valve 9c before returning to container 7a [0147] 9b & 9c see 9a

[0148] FIG. 3a provides yet a further example of the invention in which: [0149] 5k a tubing clamp is in place to allow the contents of: 1a (in example FIG. 1 via filter 4a or in example FIG. 2a via filter 4c); or 7a (in example FIG. 2b via filter 8a or in example FIG. 2c via filter 9a) to be transferred into container 10a [0150] 10a a flexible container to receive the contents of: 1a via filter 4a (in example FIG. 1) where examples described in FIG. 2 (a, b or c) are not required; 1a via filters 4a & 4c (in example FIG. 2a); 7a via filter 8a (in example FIG. 2b); or 7a via filter 9a (in example FIG. 2c) [0151] 10b hanging holes to support container 10a [0152] 10c rounded edges on internal container 10a to reduce losses which may occur as part of transfer out via 10e or f [0153] 10d tubing to enable container 10a to receive the contents of: 1a via filter 4a (in example FIG. 1) where examples described in FIG. 2 (a, b or c) are not required; 1a via filters 4a & 4c (in example FIG. 2a); 7a via filter 8a (in example FIG. 2b); or 7a via filter 9a (in example FIG. 2c) [0154] 10e tubing to enable contents of container 10a to be withdrawn via connector 10h [0155] 10f tubing with a flexible membrane to enable a sterile spike to be introduced via cover [0156] 10g to enable contents of container 10a to be withdrawn 10g aseptic cover for tubing containing membrane 10f [0157] 10h connector to enable contents of 10a to be withdrawn via tubing 10e

[0158] In a further example, as shown in FIG. 3b there is provided: [0159] 2c spike and sterile filter for media (3c) [0160] 3c media required for cryopreservation [0161] 5l tubing clamp to allow the contents of: 1a (in example FIG. 1 via filter 4a or in example FIG. 2a via filter 4c); or 7a (in example FIG. 2b via filter 8a or in example FIG. 2c via filter 9a) to be transferred into container 11a [0162] 5m tubing clamp to allow media (3c) to enter the flexible container 11a via filter and spike 2c [0163] 5n tubing clamp to allow contents of container 11a to enter one of the 12a containers depending on the open or closed status of tubing clamps 5o to 5t [0164] 5o-5t tubing clamps to allow contents of container 11a to enter one of the 12a containers depending on the open or closed status of tubing clamps 5o to 5t [0165] 11a a flexible container to receive the contents of: 1a via filter 4a (in example FIG. 1) where examples described in FIG. 2 (a, b or c) are not required; 1a via filters 4a & 4c (in example FIG. 2a); 7a via filter 8a (in example FIG. 2b); or 7a via filter 9a (in example FIG. 2c) [0166] 11b hanging holes to support container 11a [0167] 11c rounded edges on internal container 11a to reduce losses which may occur as part of transfer out via 11f [0168] 11d tubing to enable container 10a to receive the contents of: 1a via filter 4a (in example FIG. 1) where examples described in FIG. 2 (a, b or c) are not required; 1a via filters 4a & 4c (in example FIG. 2a); 7a via filter 8a (in example FIG. 2b); or 7a via filter 9a (in example FIG. 2c) [0169] 11e tubing to allow cryopreservation media 3c to be transferred into container 11b [0170] 11f tubing to enable the contents of 11a to be transferred to container(s) 12a [0171] 12a flexible containers to cryopreserve and store the final disaggregated cells product. [0172] 12b a fixture allowing aseptic transfer of the cells out of the container (12a) [0173] 12c a space as part of 12a suitable for the volume to be stored [0174] 12d a target location for welding the tubing and secondary flexible container as part of 12a using welder 13n

[0175] FIG. 4 shows a further example of the device and kit of the invention in which: [0176] 13a Pegs for hanging media 3a, 3b, 3c [0177] 13b pegs connected to weight sensors for hanging containers 1a and depending on the examples used these could include one or more of: 7a, 10a & 11a. Where the weight sensors are used to define decision stages to control the automated processing of the materials [0178] 13c Heat welder to seal container 1a at target site 1d after tissue has been introduced [0179] 13d disaggregation module with an opening that can be closed and locked to enable disaggregation and in the example that uses digest enzymes is capable of controlling temperatures between 0 C. and 40 C. to a tolerance of 1 C. to enable digestion. The module also has a built in sensor to assess the level of solid tissue disaggregation by determining the variation in light distribution against time to identify change and thereby identifying completion of the disaggregation process which will occur over a period of seconds to hours. [0180] 13e final formulation module with an enclosure to allow temperature control of either container 10a or 11a depending on the example used which is capable of controlling temperatures between 0 C. and ambient environmental temperature to a tolerance of 1 C. [0181] 13f disaggregation surfaces which come directly into contact with container 1a and pushes against the back of the module 13d enclosure which can be closed and locked during disaggregation and digestion where enzymes are utilised. [0182] 13g tubing clamp [0183] 13j tubing clamp [0184] 13h peristaltic tubing pumps [0185] 13i tubing locators [0186] 13k tubing valve required for examples FIGS. 2b & 2c [0187] 13l Pegs for hanging containers depending on the examples used these could include one or more of: 6a & 12a [0188] 13m tubing welder and cutter required for example FIG. 3b for tubing to container(s) 12a [0189] 13n tubing welder required for example FIG. 3b for tubing to container(s) 12a at target location 12d [0190] 13o controlled rate cooling module capable of cooling or maintaining any temperature between 8 C. and at least 80 C.

Example Method

[0191] The method of the invention is exemplified according to the following process. It is clearly stated that other than the essential features of the method, the various optional steps listed herein can be independently combined to achieve the relevant technical advantages associated with the type of sampling and result to be achieved.

[0192] A semi-automatic aseptic tissue processing method comprising: automatically determining aseptic disaggregation tissue processing steps and one or more further tissue processing steps and their associated conditions from a digital tag identifier on an aseptic processing kit, optionally in accordance with the kit described herein; placing a tissue sample into a flexible plastic container of the aseptic processing kit; and processing the tissue sample by automatically executing the one or more tissue processing steps by communicating with and controlling the disaggregation module; the optional enrichment module; and the stabilisation module.

[0193] Essentially the process may comprise taking an open ended bag (1st flexible container that is part of disaggregation module) that will receive the biopsy/tissue sample which is already connected via one or more conduits to (conduit) or can be connected via a manual operator controlled aseptic connection to

[0194] I. a single container with digestion media (2nd flexible container that is part of the disaggregation module) and with or without a stabilisation solution (same 2nd flexible container is part of the stabilisation module also)

[0195] II. one container with a digestion solution (2nd flexible container that is part of the disaggregation module) & another container with a stabilisation solution (4th flexible container is part of the stabilisation module)

[0196] on addition of the biopsy and sealing of the open ended bag the digestion media can be added via the conduit or aseptic connections (conduit/ports claim 1) and the tissue material processed.

[0197] On completion of the digestion by which point the tissue is now a single or small number aggregate cellular suspension the cells can optionally be filtered prior to step 4 (optional enrichment module for filtration comprises the 1st flexible container containing sample and filtered to a 3rd container for receiving the enriched filtrate)

[0198] Where the stabilisation media is not present in the same flexible container i.e. option 2.II.

[0199] this will require the container with stabilisation solution to be added by opening the attached conduit or manual operator controlled aseptically connection to be competed and said connection to be opened enabling in both cases the stabilisation solution to be added before the process continues.

[0200] The single or small number aggregate cellular suspension in the original flexible container or which may be optionally subdivided into multiple storage stabilisation containers thereafter are maintained in a stable state on the device and/or will undergo cryopreservation prior to removal for, transport, storage and or used in their ultimately utility. (The stabilisation module also comprises 1st or 3rd container as used in storage/freezing/storage)

[0201] In one further non-limiting example of the process: [0202] a) Collection of tissue sample by a separate procedure such as biopsy's or surgery to collect the required tissue material (not part of the invention) is placed into the initial flexible plastic container (see FIG. 1-container 1a). [0203] b) Media (see example FIG. 1-media 3a) is transferred into the disaggregation chamber, or in one example also enters and collects enzymes (see FIG. 1-enzymes 3b), prior to disaggregation using one or more of the following examples of the invention a mechanism such as weight sensors (see FIGS. 1-13b as part of module 13d) will assess the required amount of media to add either determined by: direct operator input or weight of solid tissue. [0204] c) The single use flexible disaggregation container, solid tissue, media and in one example enzymes are combined during a physical disaggregation process for a minimum of a few seconds up to several hours with an optimal time of between 1 and 10 minutes required to break up the solid tissue until there is no visual change (FIG. 5 including Table 1). The disaggregation device is designed to compress the tissues using a variable speed and time depending upon the time taken to disaggregate and feedback via sensors within the disaggregation module (see example FIG. 1-13d). [0205] d) In one embodiment where enzymes are present this will require incubation periods at an optimal temperature of between 30 & 37 C. but could be as low as 0 C. up to 40 C. for at least 1 minute to several hours but more preferable 15 to 45 minutes. [0206] e) Step c and in the embodiment where enzymes step d) can be repeated until the tissue stops changing or the see example has been disaggregated into a liquid cell suspension whichever comes 1st monitored by a sensor in the disaggregation module disaggregation module (FIG. 1-13d). [0207] f) In one embodiment incompletely disaggregated tissues, associated material and impurities are removed enabling enrichment of the cell suspension by passing the disaggregated tissue and media using one or more of the following embodiments: [0208] i. Direct pass through one or more mechanical filters with holes at least >0.1 m to 1000 m but most preferably between 50 and 250 m and more preferably 100 m to 200 m (illustrated in FIG. 2a) [0209] ii. Density based separation using centrifugation and/or sedimentation with or without a cell aligned density retention solution (e.g. Ficoll-paque GE Healthcare). [0210] iii. Hydrodynamic filtration where fluid flow and flow obstructing materials enhance the resolution and fractionation of the cells and impurities based on size and shape [0211] iv. Field flow fractionation where an applied field (e.g. flow, electric, gravitational, centrifugal) acts in a perpendicular or reverse direction to the selection flow (e.g. Tangential flow filtration, Hollow fibre flow filtration, Asymmetric flow filtration, Centrifugal flow filtration). In which case: cells or impurities which are most responsive to the force are driven to the wall where flow is lowest and therefore a long retention time; while cells or impurities which are least responsive to the force remain laminar to the flow and elute quickly (tangential flow filtration illustrated in FIG. 2b & c) [0212] v. Acoustophoresis where one or more an acoustic frequency(ies) tuned to or harmonized with populations of cells or impurities is used to drive the required cells or impurities in a tangential path to the input stream. [0213] g) In one embodiment the disaggregated enriched tissue product will be resuspended in a fresh media (FIG. 2a using media 3a) such as: [0214] i. a cell enrichment media in order to undergo an independent targeted enrichment procedure as described previously [0215] ii. direct cell culture or cold storage media (such as HypoThermosol from BioLife Solutions. [0216] h) in the embodiment employed in g) the resuspended disaggregated solid tissue derived product will be transferred to one of the embodiment final product containers (illustrated in FIG. 3a) for storage for hours to days prior to being used for its ultimate utility. [0217] i) otherwise after step f) the embodiment (illustrated in FIG. 3b) will apply where the disaggregated solid tissue derived product will undergo re-suspension in a cryoprotectant (FIG. 3b-media 3c) a freezing solution for storage of the disaggregated solid tissue derived product for days to years such as CryoStor Freezing solution from BioLife Solution. [0218] j) At this stage the disaggregated solid tissue derived product re-suspended in freezing solution using the device (FIG. 4-module 13e) will be transferred to 1 or more flexible cryopreservation container(s) (illustrated in FIG. 3a-container 12a) and in one embodiment of the device it will perform a controlled rate freezing process using the device (FIG. 4-module 13o). [0219] k) After which the bags can be separated from the device and aseptic processing kit for independent storage or distribution.

[0220] FIGS. 6 and 7 describe further examples in which the disposable kit of the invention can be used with an automatic device for semi-automatic aseptic processing of tissue samples.

[0221] FIG. 6 describes the following semi-automatic aseptic tissue processing method using multiple flexible containers for different starting solutions that are part of the modules of the process used for disaggregation and stabilisation.

[0222] Process step 1The user may login to device and scan the tag on the aseptic kit using the device to transfer the automatic processing steps to be used. The device processor recognises the tag and is provided with information needed to carry out the specific processing instructions related to that particular kit.

[0223] Process step 2The digestion media containing flexible bag (part of disaggregation module) and cryo/stabilisation solution containing flexible bag (part of the stabilisation module) are each hung or secured to the device.

[0224] Process step 3The biopsy or tissue sample for processing may be placed into a flexible container (part of both modules) of the aseptic kit via an open end.

[0225] Process step 4The flexible container comprising the sample may then be sealed using a heat weld to close the open end (used to add the sample during initial processing).

[0226] Process step 5The user may then interact with the user interface of the processor to confirm the tissue sample is present and enter any further tissue material specific information, if required.

[0227] Process step 6Digestion media and cryo/stabilisation solution flexible containers are connected with the flexible container housing the sample, after which it maybe placed into the device for automatic processing.

[0228] Process step 7The device executes the cycles according to the kit information undertaking disaggregation of the sample and stabilisation/cryo preservation of resulting cells.

[0229] Process step 8When stabilised/frozen disconnect and discard used media and cryo/stabilisation containers of kit. Tissue processed into single or multi-cell solution in flexible container is disconnected before transferring into storage or transport container prior to its ultimate utilisation.

[0230] FIG. 7 describes how flexible containers comprising the media used in the process may be shared between the modules of the aseptic processing kit and method.

[0231] Process step 1The user may login to device and scan the tag on the aseptic kit using the device to transfer the automatic processing steps to be used.

[0232] Process step 2A flexible bag (part of disaggregation/stabilisation module) comprising both the media and cryo/stabilisation solution is hung or otherwise secured to the device.

[0233] Process step 3The biopsy or tissue sample for processing may be placed into a further flexible container (part of both modules) of the aseptic kit via an open end.

[0234] Process step 4The flexible container comprising the sample may then be sealed using a heat weld to close the open end.

[0235] Process step 5The user may then interact with the user interface of the processor to confirm the tissue sample is present and enter any tissue material specific information, if required.

[0236] Process step 6Digestion media and cryo/stabilisation solution flexible container is connected with the flexible container housing the sample, after which it maybe placed into the device for automatic processing.

[0237] Process step 7The device cycles to enable disaggregation of the sample and stabilisation of resulting cells, optionally via cryopreservation.

[0238] Process step 8When freezing/stabilising is complete the user disconnects and discard used flexible containers of kit. Tissue processed into single or multi-cell solution in the remaining flexible container is disconnected before transferring into storage or transport container prior to its ultimate utilisation.

[0239] Enzymatic Digestion

[0240] By way of example, in another embodiment of the method of the invention, where the disaggregation process is being supplemented with enzymatic digestion the media formulation for enzymatic digestion must be supplemented with enzymes that aid in protein breakdown causing the cell to cell boundaries to breakdown as described above.

[0241] Media Formulation for Enzymatic Digestion

[0242] Various liquid formulations known in the art of cell culturing or cell handling can be used as the liquid formulation used for cell disaggregation and enzymatic digestion of solid tissues, including but not limited to one or more of the following media Organ Preservation Solutions, selective lysis solutions, PBS, DMEM, HBSS, DPBS, RPMI, Iscove's medium, X-VIVO, AIM-V, Lactated Ringer's solution, Ringer's acetate, saline, PLASMALYTE solution, crystalloid solutions and IV fluids, colloid solutions and IV fluids, five percent dextrose in water (D5W), Hartmann's SolutionDMEM, HBSS, DPBS, RPMI, AIM-V, Iscove's medium, X-VIVO, each can be optionally supplemented with additional cell supporting factors e.g. with foetal calf serum, human serum or serum substitutes or other nutrients or Cytokines to aid in cell recovery and survival or specific cell depletion. The media can be standard cell media like the above mentioned media or special media for e.g. primary human cell culture (e.g. for endothelia cells, hepatocytes or keratinocytes) or stem cells (e.g. dendritic cell maturation, hematopoietic expansion, keratonocytes, mesenchymal stem cells or T cells). The media may have supplements or reagents well known in the art, e.g. albumins and transport proteins, amino acids and vitamins, metal-ion(s), antibiotics, attachments factors, de-attachment factors, surfactants, growth factors and cytokines, hormones or solubilising agents. Various media are commercially available e. g. from ThermoFisher, Lonza or Sigma-Aldrich or similar media manufacturers and suppliers.

[0243] The liquid formulation required for enzymatic digestion must have sufficient calcium ions present in the of at least 0.1 mM up to 50 mM with an optimal range of 2 to 7 mM ideally 5 mM.

[0244] The solid tissue to be digested can be washed after disaggregation with a liquid formulation containing chelating agents EGTA and EDTA to remove adhesion factors and inhibitory proteins prior to washing and removal of EDTA and EGTA prior to enzymatic digestion.

[0245] The liquid formulation required for enzymatic digestion is more optimal with minimal chelating agents EGTA and EDTA which can severely inhibit enzyme activity by removing calcium ions required for enzyme stability and activity. In addition -mercaptoethanol, cysteine and 8-hydroxyquinoline-5-sulfonate are other known inhibitory substances.

[0246] Cryopreservation

[0247] As described in preferred embodiments final cell container for cryopreservation is a flexible container manufactured from resilient deformable material. In this embodiment of the device the final container is either transferred directly to a freezer 20 to 190 C. or more optimally located in the controlled rate freezing apparatus either associated with the device or supplied separately (manufactured by for example Planer Products or Asymptote Ltd) in which the temperature of the freezing chamber and the flexible storage container(s) employed to contain the enriched disaggregated solid tissue container is controlled either by: injecting a cold gas (normally nitrogen for example Planer products); or by removing heat away from the controlled cooling surface(s). Both methods result in the ability to accurately control with an error of less than 1 C. or more preferable 0.1 C. the freezing process at the required rate for the specific cell(s) to be frozen based on the freezing solution and the desired viability of the product. This cryopreservation process must take into account the ice nucleation temperature which is ideally as close as possible to the melting temperature of the freezing solution. Followed by crystal growth in an aqueous solution, water is removed from the system as ice, and the concentration of the residual unfrozen solution increases. As the temperature is lowered, more ice forms, decreasing the residual non-frozen fraction which further increases in concentration. In aqueous solutions, there exists a large temperature range in which ice co-exists with a concentrated aqueous solution. Eventually through temperature reduction the solution reaches the glass transition state at which point the freezing solution and cells move from a viscous solution to a solid-like state below this temperature the cells can undergo no further biological changes and hence are stabilised, for years potentially decades, until required.

[0248] Further Applications of the Invention

[0249] The disaggregated cell products achieved by the method of the present invention can be cultured and/or analysed (characterised) according to all methods known to the person skilled in the art.

[0250] The cells obtainable by the methods disclosed herein may be used for subsequent steps such as research, diagnostics, tissue-banks, biobanks, pharmacological or clinical applications known to the person skilled in the art. Cells can then be taken into culture using a Medium optimized for this application, e.g. T cell Mixed Media (Cellular Therapeutics) usually containing but not limited to growth factors such as IL-2, IL-7, IL-15, IL-21 or stimulatory conditions such as plates or polystyrene beads coated with antibodies. In the present invention isolated cells were seeded into culture containers and maintained using procedures standardly used by a person skilled in the art such as a humidified atmosphere (1-20% usually 5% CO2, 80 to 99% usually 95% air) at temperatures between 1 to 40 usually 37 C. for several weeks and supplements may be added supplemented with 10% FBS and 3000 IU/mL IL-2.

[0251] Such cell cultures can be used to study e.g. cell function, tumour cell killing, cell signalling, biomarkers, cell pathways, nucleic acids, and other cell or tissue related factors that may be used to identify donor, tissue, cell or nucleic acid status.

[0252] The enriched cells could be used before and/or after cell culturing as a pharmaceutical composition in the therapy, e.g. cellular therapy, or prevention of diseases. The pharmaceutical composition can be used for the treatment and/or prevention of diseases in mammals, especially humans, possibly including administration of a pharmaceutically effective amount of the pharmaceutical composition to the mammal.

[0253] The disease may be any disease, which can be treated and/or prevented through the presence of solid tissue derived cells and/or through increasing the concentration of the relevant cells in/at the relevant place, i.e. the tumours or sites of disease. The treated and/or preventively treated disease may be any disorder, e.g. cancer or a degenerative disorder. The treatment may be the transplantation of enriched, engineered or expanded cells or any combination of these and either administered to the relevant part of the body or supplied systemically.

[0254] Pharmaceutical compositions of the present disclosure may be administered in a manner appropriate to the disease to be treated (or prevented). The quantity and frequency of administration will be determined by such factors as the condition of the patient, and the type and severity of the patient's disease, although appropriate dosages may be determined by clinical trials.

[0255] Further specific examples:

Example 1

[0256] Impact of the Length of Disaggregation

[0257] Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were physically disaggregated for 0, 1, 5 & 10 minutes continuously before a being cultured in vitro for 0, 24 & 96 hours to assess cell recovery. The results demonstrate the physical process has negligible impact over 1 or 5 minutes and at 10 minutes the impact was transient where and initial reduction in viable cells at 0 hours was equivalent to non-disaggregated cells at 24 & 96 hours (FIG. 5).

Example 2

[0258] Solid Tissue Sample Size, Volume of Digestion Media, Disaggregation and Incubation Times

[0259] Conditions of: Solid tissue size, volume of digestion media, disaggregation time and incubation conditions have been tested and demonstrate full disaggregation of solid tissue (Table 1) except where the volume of digestion media cushioned the solid tissue during the disaggregation process resulting in 30-50% of the solid tissue remaining intact.

EQUIVALENTS

[0260] The details of one or more embodiments of the disclosure are set forth in the accompanying description above. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present disclosure, the preferred methods and materials are now described. Other features, objects, and advantages of the disclosure will be apparent from the description and from the claims. In the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs.

[0261] The foregoing description has been presented only for the purposes of illustration and is not intended to limit the disclosure to the precise form disclosed, but by the claims appended hereto.

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