JP4731556B2 - System and method for isolating and using clinically safe adipose tissue-derived regenerative cells - Google Patents

Abstract

Systems and methods are described that are used to separate cells from a wide variety of tissues. In particular, automated systems and methods are described that separate regenerative cells, e.g., stem and/or progenitor cells, from adipose tissue. The systems and methods described herein provide rapid and reliable methods of separating and concentrating regenerative cells suitable for re-infusion into a subject.

Description

(Related application)
This application claims the benefit of US Provisional Application No. 60 / 338,856, filed Dec. 7, 2001, filed on Dec. 9, 2002, with the name “Patients Treated by Liposuction Cells”. US Patent Application No. 10 / 316,127, a continuation-in-part of US patent application Ser. The contents of all the above-mentioned patent applications are hereby expressly incorporated herein by reference.
(Background of the Invention)
1. The present invention relates to systems and methods for separating and concentrating cells, eg, regenerative cells, from a wide variety of tissues. The present invention particularly relates to the separation and enrichment of clinically safe regenerative cells from adipose tissue using the systems and methods of the present invention.

2. Description of Related Art Regenerative medicine is the ability of regenerative cells, such as stem cells and / or pioneer cells (i.e., unspecialized master cells) to regenerate themselves and develop into mature specialized cells, Control in a clinically targeted manner. Stem cells are found in early stages of development, embryos, fetal cells, and some adult organs and tissues (Pera et al., 2000). Embryonic stem cells (hereinafter referred to as “ESCs”) are known to form many if not all of the cells and tissue types of living organisms. ESC not only contains all the genetic information of an individual, but also includes the developmental ability to become any of the 200+ cells and tissues of a living organism. Therefore, these cells have enormous potential for regenerative medicine. For example, ESCs can grow and differentiate into specific tissues, such as heart, lung, or kidney, which can then be used to repair damaged and diseased tissues (Assady et al., 2001; Jacobson et al., 2001; Odorico et al., 2001). However, ESC-derived tissues have clinical limitations. Since ESCs are inevitably obtained from another individual, the embryo, there is a risk that the recipient's immune system will reject this new biological material. Although immunosuppressive agents are available to prevent such rejection, such agents are known to block even favorable immune responses, such as responses to bacterial infections and viruses. In addition, the ethical debate about the source of ESC, the embryo, is widely known and is likely to be a difficult obstacle to overcome in the near future.

  Adult stem cells (hereafter referred to interchangeably as “ASC”) are an alternative to using ESC. ASC exists in an inactive form in many non-embryonic tissues. Perhaps this is a response to trauma or other destructive disease processes, and is waiting to allow healing of damaged tissue (Arvidsson et al., 2002; Bonner-Weir and Sharma, 2002; Clarke and Frisen, 2001; Crosby and Strain, 2001; Jiang et al., 2002a). Of note, there is scientific evidence to show that each individual has a certain amount of ASC that shares with ESC the ability to become many if not all types of cells and tissues. (Young et al., 2001; Jiang et al., 2002a; Jiang et al., 2002b; Schwartz et al., 2002). Therefore, ASC, like ESC, has enormous potential in clinical applications of regenerative medicine.

  ASC populations have been shown to be present in one or more of bone marrow, skin, muscle, liver, and brain (Jiang et al., 2002b; Alison, 1998; Crosby and Strain, 2001). However, the frequency of ASCs in these tissues is low. For example, the frequency of mesenchymal stem cells in the bone marrow has been estimated to be 1 in 100,000 nucleated cells to 1 in 1 million nucleated cells (D'Ippolito et al., 1999; Banfi et al., 2001; Falla et al., 1993). Similarly, the extraction of ASC from the skin involves a series of complex cell culture steps over several weeks (Toma et al., 2001), and the clinical application of skeletal muscle-derived ASC can be from 2 to 3 weeks. Requires a culture phase (Hagege et al., 2003). Therefore, any previous proposal to clinically apply the tissue-derived ASCs requires an increase in cell number, purity, and maturity through cell purification and cell culture processes.

  Although the cell culture process may achieve an increase in cell number, purity, and maturity, it is costly. This cost includes one or more of the following technical difficulties. In other words, the loss of cell function due to cell aging, the loss of potentially useful non-stem cell populations, the delay in effective application of cells to patients, increased monetary costs, and cell contamination by environmental microorganisms during culture Increased risk. Recent studies investigating the therapeutic effects of bone marrow-derived ASC have used virtually whole bone marrow to avoid problems associated with cell culture (Horwitz et al., 2001; Orlic et al., 2001; Stamm et al. , 2003; Strauer et al., 2002). However, the clinical effect was not very good. This is probably a consequence of the low ASC dose and purity inherent in the bone marrow.

  Recently, adipose tissue has been shown to be a source of ASC (Zuk et al., 2001; Zuk et al., 2002). Unlike bone marrow, skin, muscle, liver, and brain, relatively large amounts can be collected relatively easily in adipose tissue (Commons et al., 2001; Katz et al., 2001b ). In addition, adipose tissue-derived ASCs have been shown to have the ability to generate multiple tissues in vitro, including tissues including bone, fat, cartilage, and muscle (Ashjian et al., 2003; Mizuno et al. , 2002; Zuk et al., 2001; Zuk et al., 2002). From the above, adipose tissue is an optimal source of ASC used in regenerative medicine.

  However, a suitable method for collecting adipose tissue-derived ASC appears to be lacking in the prior art. Existing methods have several drawbacks. For example, existing methods may lack the ability to optimally accommodate a suction device for removing adipose tissue. Existing methods may also lack that partial or full automation in the collection of adipose tissue phase by tissue phase processing (Katz et al., 2001a). Existing methods may also lack the capacity to accommodate more than 100 ml of adipose tissue. Existing methods may further lack a partially or completely closed system in the collection of adipose tissue phase by tissue phase processing. Finally, existing methods lack the potential for single post-use disposal (disposability) of components to reduce the risk of simultaneous cross-contamination as samples move from one sample to another there is a possibility. In summary, many of the prior art methods for collecting ASC from adipose tissue do not appear to overcome the technical difficulties associated with collecting ASC from skin, muscle, liver, and brain as described above. . Thus, collecting regenerative cell populations, e.g., ASC, with high yield, consistency, and / or purity, and reducing the need for post-extraction operations while achieving it fast and reliable, or There remains a need in the prior art for systems and methods that can eliminate such a need.

  Ideally, such a device, system, or method should generate regenerative cells in a manner that is suitable for direct introduction into a recipient. To this end, the system or method of the present invention provides for the direct introduction or reinfusion of regenerative cells from the system into the recipient to cause adverse events in the patient's body, for example, unsafe levels of endotoxin, infection mediators. Optimized so as not to cause adverse events caused by the presence of bacteria, and other additives.

(Summary of the Invention)
The present invention allows for the generation of clinically safe regenerative cells, such as stem cells and progenitor cells, suitable for separating, concentrating, and reinjecting a subject into any tissue. The present invention relates to a highly reliable system and method. In one preferred embodiment, the present invention provides an automated system for separating and enriching clinically safe regenerative cells suitable for reinfusion into a subject from adipose tissue. A system for separating and concentrating adipose tissue-derived cells in accordance with the disclosure herein generally includes one or more collection chambers, processing chambers, waste chambers, output chambers, and sample chambers. These various chambers are connected by one or more conduits so that fluids containing biological material are closed, closed, or minimize exposure of tissues, cells, biological and non-biological materials to contaminants. It is possible to pass from one chamber to another through a functionally closed, sterile fluid / tissue passage. In some embodiments, a waste chamber, an output chamber, and a sample chamber are optionally provided. In certain preferred embodiments, the system comprises a clinically unrelated amount of endotoxin.

  The system also includes a plurality of filters. These filters, in particular, separate stem cells and / or precursor cells from collagen, free lipids, adipocytes, and tissue disaggregation agents that may be present in solution in connection with adipose tissue processing. It is effective for. In one embodiment, the filter assembly includes a hollow fiber filtration device. In another embodiment, the filter assembly includes an osmotic filtration device that may or may not be used with a sedimentation process. In certain preferred embodiments, the filter assembly includes a centrifuge device that may or may not be used with an elutriation device and process. In yet another embodiment, the system includes a combination of the filtration devices. The filtration function of the present invention is double. That is, one filter removes objects such as collagen, free lipids, free adipocytes, and residual collagenase from the final concentration, and another filter is used to concentrate the final product.

  In another embodiment, one or more components of the system are automated and include internal processing devices and associated software programs that control many of the processing functions. The components of the system may be disposable so that portions of the system can be discarded after a single use. The system also includes reusable components such as processing equipment (computers and associated software programs) and other components such as reusable components including motors, pumps, and the like.

  In one embodiment, a method of treating a patient comprising: a) preparing a tissue removal system; b) removing adipose tissue having a concentration of stem cells from the patient using the tissue removal system; c) Processing at least a portion of the adipose tissue to obtain a concentration of regenerative cells different from the regenerative cell concentration of the adipose tissue prior to treatment, wherein the treatment is sterile, closed, or functionally closed And d) administering the regenerative cells to the patient and treating the patient without removing the regenerative cells from the tissue removal system prior to administration to the patient.

  Any feature described herein or any combination of features may be derived from the context, from this description, and from the knowledge of one of ordinary skill in the art Unless apparently contradicting each other, they are included in the scope of the present invention.

  Other advantages and aspects of the invention are apparent from the following detailed description and from the claims.

Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments
The present invention includes, for example, fat, bone marrow, blood, skin, muscle, liver, connective tissue, fascia, brain and other nervous tissue, blood vessels, and other soft or liquid tissues, or tissue components, or tissue mixtures ( Separation of clinically safe regenerative cells, such as stem cells and / or precursor cells, from a wide variety of tissues including, but not limited to, a mixture of tissues including, for example, skin, blood vessels, fat, and connective tissue) And a fast and reliable system and method for concentrating and concentrating. In certain preferred embodiments, the system separates and concentrates clinically safe regenerative cells from adipose tissue. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the clinically safe regenerative cells obtained by the systems and methods of the present invention are suitable for introduction into the recipient's body.

  The clinically safe regenerative cells of the present invention are free of contaminants such as endotoxin, residual enzymes, free lipids, and in certain embodiments, collagen fragments, regenerative cell populations such as stem cells, progenitor cells, endothelium. Including both cells and the like. Thus, the systems and methods of the present invention provide therapeutic benefits that far exceed the potential for adverse events by reinjecting the patient with the clinically safe regenerative cells obtained by the systems and methods of the present invention. It is optimized to achieve (ie, regenerative cells survive and retain regenerative function).

  For example, the biological, abiotic, and other components of the systems and methods of the present invention do not produce clinically relevant levels of endotoxin in regenerative cells or in any other regenerative cell intermediate composition. . Thus, the resulting regenerative cells do not contain endotoxins at levels that can cause adverse events when introduced into the patient's body. In addition, the nature of endotoxin-sensitive cells in the resulting regenerative cells is altered to result in adverse events that would not occur if the endotoxin exposure was not present when the cells were injected into the patient's body. There is nothing.

  Furthermore, the biological, abiotic, and other components of the systems and methods of the present invention do not add bacteria or other infection mediators to the regenerative cells, or any regenerative cell composition intermediate. Thus, the resulting regenerative cells do not cause adverse events when introduced into the recipient's body. In addition, the nature of the sensitive cells in the resulting regenerative cells is not altered so that the injection of the cells results in adverse events that would not have occurred without exposure to the mediator. Absent.

  Similarly, biological, abiotic, and other components of the systems and methods of the present invention may depend on cells, proteins, fluids, or other materials obtained from non-human individuals that are introducing regenerative cells. No contamination with regenerative cells or other regenerative cell composition intermediates. The term “contaminant” does not include materials that are added to enhance efficient processing or delivery of cells (eg, human serum albumin that may be added prior to intravascular administration). Such additives are not considered contaminants. This is because it is intentionally added, and as used herein “contaminants” are unexpectedly found in the regenerative cells obtained using the systems and methods of the present invention (operators). Any protein, cell, fluid, mediator, or other substance added (without design or knowledge of) obtained in a way that would not have occurred without such substance A substance that changes the properties of regenerative cells.

  In addition, additives that are present in or added to the biological, abiotic, and other components of the systems and methods of the present invention may cause adverse effects on the patient. Is removed from the regenerative cells. For example, proteolytic enzymes are added to degrade the extracellular matrix in adipose tissue. If such an enzyme is introduced into the recipient's tissue, it can lead to degradation of the extracellular matrix material in the recipient's body and subsequent adverse reactions. In addition, degraded or partially degraded extracellular matrix proteins that have the ability to induce platelet aggregation and subsequent thrombotic events or trigger an autoimmune response are removed. In addition, free lipids are also removed so that there is not enough to create a substantial embolism risk.

  The system includes various stages of processing, such as but not limited to a final regenerative cell resuspension stage, to sample digested adipose tissue samples for the presence or absence of possible hazardous contaminants. One or more automated sampling probes are placed in series with the tissue. This probe is used to test the supernatant or cell suspension of the final regenerative cell preparation. This probe is designed to place the cell suspension directly into the test chamber or into the cell concentrator and then the supernatant into the test chamber to separate the supernatant from the cell suspension. Is done.

  The sampling probe described above for sampling the final regenerative cell suspension may be used with an adipocyte test chamber. The test chamber may be composed of the following components. (1) a stage for holding a microscope slide; and (2) an automatic coverslip unit. The sampling probe is arranged to obtain a sample of the final regenerative cell suspension from the main compartment and then deliver the sample to the components of the test chamber. The operation of this test chamber will proceed as follows. (1) The operator places the microscope slide in advance on the stage. (2) The cell sample is acquired by the sampling probe. (2) Next, the probe automatically moves onto the microscope slide. (3 ) Next, the stage is automatically set to move slowly to the side, while (4) the sampling probe pushes a thin layer of this cell suspension across the microscope slide, and (5) automation The coverslip unit installs a coverslip on the slide after the sample has been deployed on the slide. The slide is then held in place, after which the operator removes it from the test chamber, oil red O, or something outside, adipose tissue selective, antibody or non-antibody dye And the cells are quantified microscopically.

  The aforementioned sampling probe for sampling the final regenerative cell suspension may also be used in combination with a test chamber to verify the presence or absence of free lipids in the cell suspension. The test chamber may be composed of the following components: That is, (1) a port connecting the outside of the entire apparatus to the test chamber, (2) a tube or tubes or wells for containing a cell sample, and a triglyceride-responsive chromogenic or fluorescent source. A spectrophotometer or fluorometer that contains a holding unit, and connected to a digital display outside the entire device that converts the chromogenic or fluorogenic signal to a triglyceride content, ie, a free lipid measurement A spectrophotometer or a fluorometer. The operation of this test chamber will proceed as follows. (1) The probe is sampled from the cell suspension, and (2) the sample is put into a tube or well. (3) The operator injects an appropriate amount of color developing source or fluorescent source into the port, and puts the solution into the tube (single) or well (single). (4) The tube or well and its contents are incubated for an appropriate designated period under controlled temperature. (5) The spectrophotometer or fluorometer reads the content of the tube or well. And (6) the lipid content in the sample is digitally displayed outside the device.

  A sampling probe in series with the final regenerated cell suspension may be used in combination with a test chamber to verify residual, soluble proteolytic activity in the supernatant of the cell suspension. Such a chamber is considered to be composed of the following main components. (1) centrifuge to separate cell pellet from supernatant; (2) tube (s) or well (s) for containing regenerated cell samples, and spectrophotometer containing chromogenic or fluorescent protease substrate A digital display that converts the chromogenic or fluorogenic signal to proteolytic activity, eg, collagenase or thermolysin activity measured by gelatin or casein digestion, respectively, outside the entire device Connected spectrophotometer or fluorometer. The operation of such a test chamber is considered to proceed as follows. (1) The probe samples the final regenerative cell suspension, (2) puts it in the chamber inside the centrifuge, and the centrifuge automatically starts rotating at the specified g force and time, Separate the pellet and supernatant. (3) Next, the sampling probe obtains a sample from the supernatant of the final regenerated cell suspension. (4) The operator injects an appropriate amount of chromogenic or fluorogenic protease substrate into the port so that the solution is loaded into the spectrophotometer or fluorometer tube (s) or well (s). . (5) Tube (s) or well (s) and their contents are incubated under controlled temperature for an appropriate designated period. (6) The spectrophotometer or fluorometer reads the content of the tube (s) or well (s). And (7) the proteolytic activity in the sample is digitally displayed outside the device.

  A sampling probe in series with the final regenerative cell suspension verifies the presence of soluble factors in the cell suspension supernatant or in the cells of the final regenerative cell suspension that can induce platelet aggregation Therefore, it may be used in combination with a test chamber. Such a chamber is considered to be composed of the following main components. (1) A centrifuge that separates the cell pellet from the supernatant; (2) a temperature-controlled aggregometer that holds the tube (s) or well (s), outside the entire device, Connected to a digital display that converts the relevant amount of turbidity into units of platelet aggregation, and two separate ports: (a) a port that carries the supernatant of the final regenerated cell preparation to the test chamber; and (b) An aggregometer that includes a port that connects the exterior of the entire device to a test chamber. The operation of such a test chamber is considered to proceed as follows. (1) The operator injects platelet-rich plasma (PRP) into the port connecting the chamber and the outside of the device so that the PRP is put into the tube (s) or well (s) in the aggregometer. . (2) The sampling probe acquires a sample of the final regenerative cell suspension and executes step “3” when measuring the soluble agent for platelet aggregation, or measuring the cellular agent for platelet aggregation. Performs step "4". (3) The sampling probe puts the sample into the chamber inside the centrifuge, and the centrifuge starts to rotate automatically at the specified g force and time to separate the cell pellet and the supernatant, and then the sampling probe Acquire the supernatant sample and place it into the tube (s) or well (s) in the aggregometer. (4) The sampling probe directly puts the sample of the final regenerated cell suspension into the tube (single) or well (single) in the aggregometer. (5) Tube (s) or well (s) and their contents are incubated under controlled temperature for an appropriate designated period. (6) The aggregometer reads the content of the tube (s) or well (s). And (7) the platelet aggregation activity of the sample is digitally displayed outside the device.

  According to a further new embodiment, one or more of the above tests are not automatically performed, but rather are automatically displayed by the system to remind the user or to prompt for the manual execution option. (Or otherwise delivered to the user).

  The displayed test may depend on the application type (eg, intravascular delivery, versus non-systemic implantation) input by the user. That is, as described above, the system automatically saves a group of tests (eg, the system can accommodate, facilitate, or at least partially execute) depending on its application type. The selection may be based on (i) the type of application and / or (ii) the type of tissue entered by the user. . The system then automatically displays these tests (or otherwise transports them to the user) and optionally prompts the user to select from the displayed tests. .

  The user can provide input indicating the type of tissue being processed and the application (eg, the type of tissue being formed). Based on this input, the system automatically determines what type of test should be performed. These tests include endotoxins such as residual enzymes, free lipids resulting from digestion, and at least one of the residual extracellular matrix that may result from digestion, such as endotoxin applications (eg, induced tissue). Measurement of clinical risk level for the type of formation). In one modified embodiment, the system automatically selects a group of tests based on the input (from a stored set of tests that the system can perform). The system then automatically displays these tests and prompts the user to select from among the displayed tests.

  When delivering at least a portion of the composition intravascularly into a patient's body, in one example, for at least a portion of the composition, at least one of endotoxin, residual enzyme, free lipid, and platelet aggregation agent. The presence or absence of a clinical risk level can be automatically verified. In the illustrated embodiment, the displayed test includes the above three items, and then the user enters a specific test that is preferably or must be performed by the automated system.

  When at least a portion of the composition is implanted non-systemically in the patient's body, the platelet aggregation agent may not be automatically verified for its clinical risk level. In certain exemplary embodiments, the displayed test does not include the option of testing a portion of the composition for the presence or absence of a platelet aggregation agent.

  In another embodiment, when at least a portion of the composition is implanted non-systemically in a patient's body, the free lipid may not be automatically verified for its clinical risk level. In certain exemplary embodiments, the displayed test does not include the option of testing a portion of the composition for the presence or absence of free lipids.

  In another preferred embodiment, the system is automated so that the entire method from separation to enrichment of clinically safe regenerative cells is performed in a sequential order with minimal user intervention. Preferably, the entire process leading to extraction, separation, concentration, and placement within the recipient of regenerative cells is all performed at the same facility, in fact, in the same room where the patient is being treated. Regenerated cells may be used in a relatively short time after extraction / concentration. For example, the regenerative cells may be made available within about 1 hour after collection from the patient's tissue, and in certain circumstances may be made available within about 10 to 40 minutes after collection of the tissue. In certain preferred embodiments, the regenerative cells may be made available within about 20 minutes after tissue collection. The total length of the process from extraction to separation / concentration varies depending on the number of factors including factors such as patient profile, type of tissue collected, and the amount of regenerative cells required for any given therapeutic application. Good. The cells can also be used to grow other cells, tissues, fragments, supports, or other cells in the context of a single manipulation procedure that is intended to have a therapeutic, structural, or cosmetic effect on the recipient. And / or may be placed in the recipient's body in combination with a differentiation stimulating factor. It should be understood that if the regenerative cells are further manipulated in addition to the separation / concentration phase of the system, that operation requires additional time that is compatible with the method of operation.

  Patients suffering from various diseases and disorders may benefit from the regenerative cells of the present invention. For example, cardiovascular disease and disorder, liver disease and disorder, kidney disease and disorder, skeletal muscle disorder, lung injury and disorder, diabetes, intestinal disease and disorder, nervous system disorder, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, seizure related disease and disorder, Suffers from hematopoietic diseases and disorders, wounds, skin ulcers and other diseases and disorders, trauma injuries, burns, radioactive or chemical or other toxin-induced damage or disorders, and bone and cartilage related diseases and disorders Patients can be treated with the regenerative cells obtained by the systems and methods of the present invention.

  In certain embodiments, diseases and disorders mediated by angiogenesis and arteriogenesis are treated with regenerative cells obtained using the systems and methods of the invention. For example, acute myocardial infarction, ischemic cardiomyopathy, peripheral vascular disease, ischemic stroke, acute tubular necrosis, ischemic wound, sepsis, ischemic bowel disease, diabetic retinopathy, neuronal disorder, nephropathy, vasculitis, imaginary Treatment of bloody brain disorders, erectile dysfunction, ischemic and / or traumatic spinal cord injury, multiple organ system failure, ischemic gingival disease, and transplant-related ischemia is possible.

  In addition, diseases and disorders that affect more than one physiological system, such as traumatic injury involving both soft and hard tissues, aging effects, multiple organ disorders, etc., can also be obtained using the systems and methods of the present invention. It can be treated with regenerative cells. Regenerative cells can also be used for enhancing tendon and cartilage repair, and for various clinical and non-clinical cosmetic and structural applications, including autologous fat transfer applications. Cosmetic applications include, for example, face and eyelids, lips, breasts and hips, as well as reconstruction of soft tissue defects. Regenerative cells can also be used for tissue engineering applications known in the prior art.

  In order that the present invention may be more readily understood, certain terms are first defined. New definitions are set forth throughout the detailed description.

  As used herein, “regenerative cells” are any heterogeneous or allogeneic cells obtained using the systems and methods of the present invention, and the structure or function of an organ, tissue, or physiological unit or system. Resulting in a complete, partial regeneration, recovery, or replacement of or contributing to such regeneration, recovery, or replacement, thereby achieving a therapeutic, structural, or cosmetic effect Refers to a cell. Examples of regenerative cells include ASC, endothelial cells, endothelial progenitor cells, endothelial precursor cells, macrophages, fibroblasts, peripheral cells, smooth muscle cells, preadipocytes, differentiated or dedifferentiated adipocytes, keratinocytes, unipotency and Pluripotent precursors and progenitor cells (and their progeny), and lymphocytes.

  One mechanism by which regenerative cells achieve a therapeutic, structural, or cosmetic effect is by incorporating itself or its progeny into newly generated, existing, or repaired tissue or tissue components. For example, ASC and / or its progeny are incorporated into newly generated bone, muscle, or other structural or functional tissue, thereby providing a therapeutic, structural, or cosmetic improvement, or To contribute. Similarly, endothelial cells, or endothelial progenitor or progenitor cells, and their progeny are incorporated into existing, newly developed, repaired, or dilated blood vessels, thereby therapeutic, structural, or cosmetic Bring or contribute to improvements.

  Another mechanism by which regenerative cells achieve therapeutic, structural, or cosmetic effects is a molecule that enhances the creation, retention, recovery, and / or regeneration of the structure or function of any given tissue or tissue component. For example, by expressing and / or secreting growth factors. For example, regenerative cells may express and / or secrete molecules that result in enhanced growth of tissues or cells that participate directly or indirectly in improving structure or function. Regenerative cells are growth factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), placental growth factor (PIGF), bFGF, IGF-II, eotaxin, G-CSF, GM-CSF, IL-12 p40 / p70, IL-12 p70, IL-13, IL-6, IL-9, leptin, MCP-1, M-CSF, MIG, PF-4, TIMP-1, TIMP-2, TNF-α, thrombopoietin, and their isomers A growth factor comprising, may be expressed and / or secreted that performs one or more of the following functions: Its function is to stimulate the development of new blood vessels, i.e. to enhance angiogenesis; to improve the oxygenation of existing small blood vessels (branch vessels) by expanding their blood carrying capacity Inducing migration of regenerative cells from a site remote from the injury site and enhancing targeting and migration of the cells to the injury site; stimulating cell proliferation within the injury site and / or Increasing survival and thereby enhancing retention of function or structure; delivering molecules with anti-apoptotic properties, thereby reducing cell mortality or probability of death, and permanent loss of function; and Interacting with endogenous regenerative cells and / or other physiological mechanisms.

  The regenerative cells may be used in their “native” form as they exist in the tissue or as they are separated and concentrated from the tissue by the systems and methods of the invention, or as described herein. As described below, the resulting population is converted to physical properties (eg, size or density) by gene transfer (transient or stable transfer) upon stimulation or ripening with growth factors or other biological response modifiers. Based on further fractionation, it may be modified by differential adhesion to solid phase material, expression of cell surface or intracellular molecules, cell culture, or other extracorporeal or in vivo manipulation, modification, or fractionation. Regenerative cells can also contain other cells or devices, such as synthetic or biological supports, factors, agents, drugs, or other agents that modify or enhance the relevant properties of the cells, as described later herein. You may use it in combination with the material or apparatus to convey.

  As used herein, a “regenerative cell composition” is a composition comprising cells that are usually present in a volume of liquid and at least partially separated after washing tissue, eg, adipose tissue. Point to. For example, the regenerative cell composition of the present invention includes a plurality of different types of regenerative cells, such as ASC, endothelial cells, endothelial progenitor cells, endothelial precursor cells, macrophages, fibroblasts, perivascular cells, smooth muscle Cells, preadipocytes, differentiated or dedifferentiated adipocytes, keratinocytes, unipotent and pluripotent precursors and progenitors (and their progeny), and lymphocytes. The regenerative cell composition is also used in or in the process of dissociating one or more contaminants, such as collagen that may be present in tissue fragments, or residual collagenase, or the tissue dissociation process described herein. Other enzymes or mediators arising from may be included.

  As used herein, “regenerative medicine” refers to any therapeutic, structural, or cosmetic benefit obtained by directly or indirectly introducing regenerative cells into a subject's body. Regenerative medicine includes all diseases and disorders described herein, as well as those known in the prior art.

  As used herein, “stem cells” refer to pluripotent regenerative cells that have the potential to differentiate into various other cells that have the ability to perform one or more specific functions and renew themselves. Some of the stem cells disclosed herein are pluripotent.

  As used herein, “progenitor cells” refers to pluripotent regenerative cells that have the ability to differentiate into more than one cell type, but have little or no ability to renew themselves. As used herein, “progenitor cells” also refers to unipotent cells that have the ability to differentiate into only a single cell type. The cells perform one or more specific functions but have little or no ability to renew themselves. In particular, “endothelial progenitor cells” as used herein refers to pluripotent or unipotent cells that have the ability to differentiate into vascular endothelial cells.

  As used herein, “progenitor cell” refers to a unipotent regenerative cell capable of differentiating into one cell type. Progenitor cells and their progeny may retain a strong proliferative capacity, for example, lymphocytes and endothelial cells can proliferate under appropriate conditions.

  As used herein, “stem cell count” or “stem cell frequency” refers to a culture medium that supports agglutination of adipose tissue-derived cells (ADC) at low cell density (<10,000 cells per well) and supports MSC growth (eg, The number of colonies observed in a clonogenic assay grown in 10% fetal bovine serum, 5% horse serum, and DMEM / F12 culture medium supplemented with antibiotics / antifungal agents. Cells are grown for 2 weeks, after which cultures are stained with hematoxylin and colonies consisting of more than 50 cells are counted as CFU-F. Stem cell frequency is calculated as the number of CFU-F observed per 100 nucleated cells seeded (for example, 15 colonies are counted in a plate starting with 1,000 nucleated regenerative cells. That gives a stem cell frequency of 1.5%). The number of stem cells is calculated as the stem cell frequency multiplied by the total number of nucleated ADC cells obtained. A high percentage (-100%) of CFU-F grown from regenerative cells express the cell surface molecule CD105. This molecule is also expressed by bone marrow derived stem cells (Barry et al., 1999). CD105 is also expressed by adipose tissue-derived stem cells (Zuk et al., 2002).

  As used herein, the term “adipose tissue” refers to fat including connective tissue that stores fat. Adipose tissue contains multiple regenerative cell types, including ASC and endothelial progenitor and progenitor cells.

  As used herein, “adipose tissue unit” refers to a discrete or measurable amount of adipose tissue. One unit of adipose tissue is measured by determining the weight and / or volume of the unit. Based on the data specified above, a unit of treated lipoaspirate removed from a patient has a cellular component in which at least 0.1% of the cellular components are stem cells. That is, the lipoaspirate has a stem cell frequency of at least 0.1% as defined above. With reference to the disclosure herein, a unit of adipose tissue refers to the total amount of adipose tissue removed from a single patient or less than the total amount of adipose tissue removed from a single patient. Thus, one unit of adipose tissue may be combined with another unit of adipose tissue to form one unit of adipose tissue that is the total weight or volume of the individual units.

  As used herein, the term “portion” refers to an amount of a substance that is less than the whole. A minor portion refers to an amount less than 50% and a major portion refers to an amount greater than 50%. Thus, one unit of adipose tissue that is less than the total amount of adipose tissue removed from a single patient is part of the extracted adipose tissue.

  As used herein, the term “treated lipoaspirate” refers to adipose tissue that is treated to separate active cell components (eg, components that contain regenerative cells) from mature adipocytes and connective tissue. This fraction is referred to herein as “adipose tissue-derived cells” or “ADC”. Typically, ADC refers to a pellet of regenerative cells obtained by washing, separating and concentrating cells from adipose tissue. This pellet is usually obtained by centrifuging the cell suspension and aggregating the cells at the bottom of a centrifuge chamber or cell concentrator.

  As used herein, the terms “administering”, “introducing”, “delivering”, “installing”, and “transplanting” are used interchangeably herein and the regeneration of the present invention Refers to introducing a cell into a subject, thereby placing the regenerative cell through a method or route that allows it to be at least partially localized at a desired site. A regenerative cell is any suitable route that allows the subject to be transported to the desired site where the cell or at least a portion of the cellular components can remain viable. It is administered via any suitable route. Cell survival after administration to a subject may range from as little as several hours to as long as, for example, 24 hours, days, or years.

  As used herein, the term “treating” includes reducing or alleviating at least one adverse effect or symptom of a disease or disorder.

  As used herein, “therapeutically effective amount of regenerative cells” refers to the amount of regenerative cells sufficient to produce an effective or desired clinical effect. The dose is administered through one or more administrations. On the other hand, the determination of what is considered to be an effective dose depends on the individual factors of each patient, such as the patient's age, size, type or degree of disease, stage of disease, route of administration of regenerative cells, type of adjuvant therapy used Or it may be based on factors including, but not limited to, the extent, the course of disease progression, and the type of treatment desired (eg, advanced versus conventional treatment).

  A “subject” as used herein includes warm-blooded animals, preferably mammals including humans. In a preferred embodiment, the subject is a primate. In a further preferred embodiment, the subject is a human.

  As previously described herein, regenerative cells, such as stem cells and precursor cells, can be collected from various tissues. The system of the present invention may be used for all of these tissues. However, adipose tissue is a particularly rich source of regenerative cells. Accordingly, the system of the present invention is specifically described herein using adipose tissue as a source of regenerative cells and by way of example only, and not limitation.

  Adipose tissue can be obtained by any method known to those skilled in the art. For example, adipose tissue can be obtained by liposuction (with a syringe or power assisted), or lipectomy, such as aspiration assisted lipoplasty, ultrasound assisted lipoplasty, and excision lipectomy, or a combination thereof It may be removed from the patient. Adipose tissue may be removed, collected, and processed according to any embodiment selected from the embodiments of the system of the present invention described herein. The amount of tissue collected will depend on many factors, such as the donor's body mass index and age, the time available for collection, the availability of available adipose tissue collection sites, current and conventional medications and conditions (e.g. , Anticoagulation therapy) and the clinical purpose for which the tissue is collected. For example, the percentage of regenerative cells in 100 ml adipose tissue extracted from lean individuals is greater than that extracted from obese donors (Table 1). This probably reflects the dilution effect due to increased fat content in obese individuals. Accordingly, in accordance with one aspect of the present invention, it is desirable to obtain a greater amount of tissue from an overweight donor as compared to the amount aspirated from a leaner patient. This finding also indicates that the utility of the present invention is not limited to individuals with large amounts of adipose tissue.

  After the adipose tissue has been processed, the resulting regenerative cells are substantially free of free lipids, blood components, mature adipocytes and connective tissue. Thus, the system of the present invention produces a plurality of xenogeneic adipose tissue-derived regenerative cells that can be used for research and / or therapeutic purposes. In a preferred embodiment, the cells are clinically safe, i.e. suitable for placement or reinfusion in the recipient's body. In other embodiments, the cells may be used for research, e.g., to establish a stem cell or pioneer cell line that can survive for long periods of time and be used for subsequent studies. It can also be used.

  The preferred embodiment of the present invention will now be described in detail. Examples are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same or similar reference numerals are used in the drawings and the description to refer to the same or like parts. It should be noted that the drawings are shown in a simple form and are not exact. In the description of the disclosure herein, for convenience and clarity, directional terms such as top, bottom, left, right, top, bottom, top, top, bottom, just below, back, front, distal, And proximal are used with respect to the accompanying drawings. Such directional terms should not be considered in any way as limiting the scope of the invention.

  While the disclosure herein refers to several exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that these embodiments are for purposes of illustration and not for limitation. The intent of the detailed description below is to discuss an exemplary embodiment of the embodiment, which is contemplated as falling within the spirit and scope of the invention, as defined by the claims. It should be considered as covering all modifications, alternative embodiments, and equivalents. The present invention may be utilized with various medical procedures customary in the prior art.

  Referring now to the drawings, the system 10 of the present invention generally includes one or more tissue collection chambers 20, a processing chamber 30, a waste chamber 40, an output chamber 50, and a sample chamber 60. Each chamber has one or more fluids that allow fluids containing biological material to pass from one chamber to another while maintaining a closed or functionally closed, sterile fluid / tissue pathway. Coupled together by conduit 12. A functionally closed passage refers to a system in which the manufacture of a system consisting of bags, tubes, and other components that are otherwise structurally closed is performed either preservatively or aseptically. Typically, this is through a sealed rubber septum that has been previously wiped with alcohol, povidone iodine, or similar agents, through a luer lock-type fitting in a sterile or preservative environment, or in a sterile or preservative environment. Including the addition of material through a temporary opening maintained open. A typical example of a functionally closed system is a sterile connection device in which one closure system is connected to the second closure system in a closed, aseptic or preservative manner. is there.

  The conduit may include rigid or bent bodies, referred to herein as cavities and tubes, used interchangeably. In one embodiment, the conduit takes the form of a flexible tube, such as a tube made of polyethylene tube, silicone, or any other material known in the art, commonly used in clinical settings. The conduit 12 may vary in size depending on whether it wishes to pass fluid or tissue. The conduit 12 may also vary in size depending on the amount of tissue or fluid circulating in the system. For example, for fluid passage, the conduit may have a diameter in the range of about 0.060 to about 0.750 inches, and for tissue passage, the conduit is 0.312 to 0.750 inches. You may have a diameter in the range of. In general, the size of the conduit is chosen to balance the capacity that the conduit can accommodate and the time required to transport tissue or fluid through the conduit. In an automated implementation of the system, the parameters, ie capacity and transit time, must be specified so that appropriate signals are sent to the processing equipment of the system. This allows the device to move the correct volume of fluid and tissue from one chamber to another. The bendable tube used must be able to withstand negative pressure so that flat deformation does not occur as much as possible. The bendable tube used must also be able to withstand the positive pressure generated by, for example, a positive pump that may be used in the system.

  All of the system chambers include one or more ports, for example, an outlet port 22 or an inlet port 21. These ports will accept standard IV, syringe, and suction tube connections. The port may be a sealed port, for example, a rubber septal closure needle opening port 51. The inlet port may be coupled with one or more cannulas (not shown) through a conduit. For example, the tissue inlet port 21 may be coupled with an integrated single use liposuction cannula and the conduit may be a bent tube. The conduit is generally arranged to provide a fluid path from one chamber of the system to another. For this purpose, the conduits and ports may be coupled to a suction device (not shown) which is operated manually or automatically, for example. The suction device may be, for example, a syringe or an electric pump. The aspiration device must be capable of providing sufficient negative pressure to aspirate tissue from the patient. In general, any suction device known to those skilled in the art, for example, a surgeon, can be used.

  The conduit 12 may further include one or more clamps (not shown) to regulate the internal material flow of the various components of the system. Clamps are useful for maintaining system sterility by effectively sealing different areas of the system. Alternatively, conduit 12 may include one or more valves 14 that regulate the flow of material circulating through the system. The valve 14 is identified as an open circle in the drawing. In a preferred embodiment, the valve is an electromechanical pinch valve. In another embodiment, the valve is a pneumatic valve. In yet another embodiment, the valve is a hydraulic valve or a mechanical valve. These valves are preferably activated by a control system coupled to a lever. The lever may be manually operated to be activated. In an automated embodiment, the control system may be coupled to a processing device that activates the valve at specified activation conditions in addition to the lever. In some automated embodiments, the activation of the valve may be partly automated and partly tailored to the user's preference so that the process is optimized. In yet another embodiment, some valves may be activated manually and some may be automatically activated by the processing device. The valve 14 may also be used in combination with one or more pumps, such as a peristaltic pump 34, or a positive pump (not shown). Conduit 12 and / or valve 14 may also be a sensor 29, such as an optical sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, a pressure sensor, or other form of fluid fluid capable of identifying various fluid components and fluid levels circulating in the system. A monitor known in the prior art may be included. In a preferred embodiment, sensor 29 is an optical sensor.

  The system may also include a plurality of filters 36. In certain embodiments, the filter may be contained within one chamber of system 28. Various chambers within the system may include different filters. The filter is effective to separate regenerative cells, such as stem cells and / or precursor cells, from non-target cells and disaggregation agents that may be used in accordance with the present system. In one embodiment, the filter assembly 36 includes a hollow fiber filtration device. In another embodiment, the filter assembly 36 includes an osmotic filtration device that may be used with or without a sedimentation process. In yet another embodiment, the filter assembly 36 includes a centrifuge that may be used with or without an elution device and process. In yet another embodiment, the system includes a combination of these filtration devices. The filtration function of the present invention may be dual. That is, one filter removes objects such as collagen, free lipids, free adipocytes, and residual collagenase from the final concentration, and another filter is used to concentrate the final product. The filter of the system includes a plurality of holes having a diameter and / or length in the range of 20 to 800 μm. In one preferred embodiment, the collection chamber 20 has a pre-fixed filter 28 with a plurality of holes in the range of 80 to 400 μm. In another preferred embodiment, the collection chamber 20 has a pre-fixed filter 28 with a plurality of 265 μm holes. In another embodiment, the filter may be separable and / or disposable.

  The system may also include one or more temperature adjustment devices (not shown) that are arranged for temperature adjustment of the material contained within the one or more chambers of the system. The temperature control device may be a heater, a cooler, or both. That is, it may be switchable between a heater and a cooler. The temperature device may adjust the temperature of any material that circulates through the system, such as tissue, disaggregation agents, resuspension agents, rinse agents, detergents, or additives. For example, heating of adipose tissue promotes disaggregation, while cooling of regenerative cell output is desirable to maintain viability. In addition, if a pre-warmed reagent is required for optimal tissue processing, the role of the temperature device is to maintain the specified temperature rather than raising or lowering the temperature. Let's go.

  In order to maintain a closed, sterile fluid / tissue pathway, all ports and valves include closure means that maintain the sealed configuration of the system. The closure means may be a membrane that is impermeable to fluids, air, and other contaminants, or, where appropriate, any other closure means known in the art. . Furthermore, all ports of the system are designed to accommodate syringes, needles, or other devices for drawing material into the chamber without affecting the sterility of the system.

  As described herein, tissue may be extracted from the patient through any method recognized in the prior art. Aspiration tissue may be extracted prior to introduction into the system for processing. Typically, aspiration tissue is transferred from the conduit 12 to the collection chamber 20 through a sealed inlet port, such as a rubber septal closure needle opening port (not shown in the collection chamber). Alternatively, the tissue extraction process may be part of the system. For example, the collection chamber 20 may include a vacuum line 11 that facilitates tissue removal with a standard cannula inserted into the patient's body. Thus, in this embodiment, the entire system is attached to the patient. Tissue may be introduced into the collection chamber 20 from the inlet port 21 through a conduit, such as 12a that is part of a closed sterilization pathway. The collection chamber 20 may include a plurality of flexible or rigid canisters or cylinders, or combinations thereof. For example, the collection chamber 20 may include one or more rigid canisters of various sizes. The collection chamber 20 may also include one or more flexible bags. In such systems, the bag may be provided with a support, such as an internal or external frame, that helps reduce the probability of collapsing when suction is applied to the bag. The collection chamber 20 has a size sufficient to hold the amount of saline necessary to properly wash and disaggregate the tissue prior to the washing and concentration steps of the processing performed in the processing chamber 30. The volume of tissue or fluid present in the collection chamber 20 is preferably easily ascertained with the naked eye. For example, to obtain regenerative cells from adipose tissue, a suitable collection chamber has a capacity to hold 800 ml of lipoaspirate and 1200 ml of saline. Thus, in one embodiment, the collection chamber 20 has a capacity of at least 2 liters. In another embodiment, the collection chamber 20 has a capacity of at least 1.5 liters for separating and concentrating red blood cells from blood. In general, the size of the collection chamber 20 will vary depending on the type and amount of tissue collected from the patient. The collection chamber 20 may be sized to hold small from about 5 ml of tissue to about 2 liters of tissue. For relatively small tissue volumes, eg, 5 ml to 100 ml volumes, the tissue is collected in a syringe before being transferred to the collection chamber 20.

  The collection chamber 20 may be constructed using any suitable biocompatible material that can be sterilized. In a preferred embodiment, the collection chamber 20 is constructed from a disposable material that meets biocompatibility requirements for intravenous contact, as described in the ISO 10993 standard. For example, polycarbonate, acrylic or ABS may be used. The fluid passage of the collection chamber 20 is preferably free of pyrogens, i.e. suitable for blood use without risk of disease transmission. In one embodiment, the collection chamber 20 is constructed from a material that allows the user to visually determine the approximate volume of tissue present in the chamber. In another embodiment, the volume of tissue and / or fluid in collection chamber 20 is defined by automated sensor 29. The collection chamber 20 is preferably designed in an automated embodiment so that the system can determine the volume of tissue and / or fluid in the chamber with considerable accuracy. In certain preferred embodiments, the system senses the volume in the collection chamber with an accuracy of plus or minus 15 percent.

  In one particular embodiment, provided by way of example only, the collection chamber 20 comprises a rigid chamber, for example a medical grade polyester, comprising a generally conical pre-fixed filter 28 having a mesh size of 265 μm. A chamber constructed from grade polyester (see FIG. 5). The rigid, tissue collection container may have a size of about 8 inches high and about 5 inches in diameter. The wall thickness may be about 0.125 inches. Intrusion into the interior of the cylinder may be, for example, one or more ports for suction tubes, one or more ports with connecting tubes by aseptic coupling technology, and / or one for needle opening through a rubber septum It may be done through more than one port. The filter 28 fixed in advance in the collection chamber 20 preferably has a structure that holds adipose tissue and allows non-adipose tissue to pass through, for example, when the tissue is removed from the patient. More specifically, the filter 28 allows free lipid, blood, and saline to pass through during the initial collection of adipose tissue, and in another embodiment after collection, while retaining fragments of adipose tissue. To do. For this purpose, the filter 28 includes a plurality of holes of the same or different sizes having a range of about 20 μm to 5 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the filter 28 includes a plurality of 400 μm holes. In a preferred embodiment, the filter 28 is a medical grade polyester mesh having a thickness of about 200 μm, a pore size of about 265 μm, and an open area of about 47%. This material retains the tissue during rinsing, but allows cells to pass through the mesh after tissue disaggregation. Thus, it is possible to separate non-adipose tissue from adipose tissue as the tissue is aspirated from the patient. The same functionality can be achieved with different materials, mesh sizes, and numbers / types of ports. For example, even with a pore size of a mesh smaller than 100 μm, or a pore size as large as several thousand microns, the saline and blood cells are allowed to pass through, while the adipose tissue aggregates and fragments are retained. It seems possible to achieve the objective. Similarly, the same objective could be achieved using other rigid plastic materials, or many other variations known to those skilled in the art.

  The system 10 may also include one or more solution sources 22. The solution source may include a wash solution source 23 and a tissue disaggregation agent source 24 such as collagenase. The collection chamber 20 includes a closed fluid pathway that allows wash fluid or disaggregation agent to be added to the tissue aseptically.

  The container for the washing solution 23 and the deaggregating agent 24 may be any suitable container as long as it can hold the contents aseptically, for example, can be deformed flat. It may be a bag, for example an IV bag used in clinical settings. The container has a conduit 12, for example, a conduit 12 e that couples to the collection chamber 20, so that washing and deagglomerating agents may be delivered to the interior of the collection chamber 20. The washing and deagglomerating agent can be in any manner known in the prior art, including, for example, a simple gravity pressure applied to the outside of the container of saline solution 23 and / or deaggregating agent 24, or a conduit, For example, it may be delivered to the inside of the collection chamber 20 by installing a positive pressure transfer pump in the conduit 12d of FIG. In an automated embodiment, the processing equipment of the system determines various parameters such as the volume of saline required for cleaning, the time or number of cycles, the concentration or amount of deaggregating agent, and the time required for deaggregation. To calculate based on the information initially entered (eg, the amount of tissue to be processed). Alternatively, the amount, time, etc. are manually manipulated by the user.

  The tissue and / or fluid in the collection chamber must be maintained at a temperature in the range of 30 degrees Celsius to 40 degrees Celsius. In one preferred embodiment, the temperature of the suspension in the collection chamber is maintained at 37 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, if the surgical procedure or therapeutic application needs to be delayed, the selected tissue may be stored in a collection chamber for later use. The tissue may be stored at room temperature, at about room temperature, or at about 4 degrees Celsius for up to 96 hours.

  The wash solution may be any solution known to those skilled in the art, such as a saline solution, or any other buffered or unbuffered electrolyte. The type of tissue to be processed specifies the type or combination of cleaning fluids used. Typically, a cleaning solution, such as a saline solution, enters collection chamber 20 after adipose tissue is removed from the patient and placed in the collection chamber. However, the cleaning solution may be delivered to the collection chamber 20 before the adipose tissue is extracted, or may be delivered to the collection chamber 20 at the same time as the adipose tissue. In the collection chamber 20, the washing liquid and the extracted adipose tissue may be mixed by any means including a method described later.

  For example, the tissue may be washed by shaking, which maximizes cell viability and minimizes the amount of free lipid released. In one embodiment, the tissue passes through the collection chamber 20 through arcs of various angles (eg, arcs from about 45 degrees to about 90 degrees) at various speeds, eg, about 30 revolutions per minute. Shake by rotating at speed. In another embodiment, the tissue passes through the collection chamber 20 through arcs of various angles (eg, arcs from about 45 degrees to about 90 degrees) at various speeds, eg, about 30 revolutions per minute. Shake by rotating at speed. In so doing, the collection chamber 20 includes one or more paddles or protrusions that are rigidly attached to the inner wall of the collection chamber. The rotation of the collection chamber 20 described above is realized by a drive mechanism attached to the collection chamber 20 or installed in the vicinity thereof. The drive mechanism may be a simple belt or gear or other drive mechanism known in the prior art. The rotation speed may be, for example, 30 rotations per minute. In general, higher speeds have been found to be less than optimal due to the increased amount of free lipid.

  In another embodiment, the tissue is shaken by placing a rotatable shaft 25 in the collection chamber 20. In so doing, the rotatable shaft includes one or more paddles 25a or protrusions that are rigidly attached to the rotatable shaft 25 that pass through the mixture as the shaft rotates. In some embodiments, the rotatable shaft 25, to which the paddle 25a is rigidly attached, may be stationary at the bottom of the collection chamber 20. This can be achieved, for example, by placing a paddle-like device in a rotating magnetic field (eg, a magnetic stirrer). Alternatively, tissue shaking may be achieved using a simple shaker known in the prior art, i.e., a device that performs up and down shaking without rotation. The tissue may also be washed using any other means known in the art, such as rocking, stirring, reversing, etc.

  After the desired number of wash cycles, the tissue disaggregation agent may be delivered to the collection chamber 20 to separate the regenerative cells from the remaining adipose tissue components. The deaggregating agent may be any deaggregating agent known to those skilled in the art. Disaggregation agents that may be used include neutral protease, collagenase, trypsin, lipase, hyaluronidase, deoxyribonuclease, members of the blendzyme enzyme mixture family, such as liberase H1, pepsin, ultrasound or other physical energy, Lasers, microwaves, other mechanical devices, and / or combinations of the above. A preferred disaggregating agent of the present invention is collagenase. In a preferred embodiment, the deaggregating agent used is approved for human use by the relevant authorities (eg, the US Food and Drug Administration). In all embodiments, the deaggregating agent is free of living microorganisms and other contaminants such as endotoxin.

  The deagglomerating agent may be added with other solutions. For example, a saline solution, for example, a saline solution delivered from the aforementioned saline source 23, may be added to the adipose tissue and collagenase may be added at the same time or immediately thereafter. In one embodiment, the washed adipose tissue is mixed with the collagenase-containing enzyme solution at or around 37 ° C. for about 20-60 minutes. In one particular embodiment, the tissue is washed with sterile isotonic buffered saline and sufficient to achieve sufficient disaggregation with multiple disaggregation agents, such as a mixture of collagenase and neutral protease. Incubate at various concentrations, temperatures, and times. Available and suitable neutral proteases can be purchased from F. Hoffmann-La Roche, Indianapolis, IN. Suitable collagenase preparations include recombinant and non-recombinant collagenase. Non-recombinant collagenase can be purchased from F. Hoffmann-La Roche, Indianapolis, IN and / or Advance Biofactures, Lynbrook, NY. Recombinant collagenase is also available according to the disclosure of US Pat. No. 6,475,764.

  In one preferred embodiment, the washed adipose tissue is combined with an enzyme mixture, Blendzyme 3® (Roche Diagnostics), to produce the following concentrations of enzyme: Collagenase I and II (0.5 Wunsch units / ml) and thermolysin (241 caseinase units / ml). The tissue is then incubated for 15-25 minutes at 37 ° C. These parameters are optimized by empirical testing to ensure that the system is effective in extracting the desired cell population in the appropriate time frame and vary according to the source of the collagenase enzyme. It is done. In certain particularly preferred embodiments, the enzyme (s) used are approved for human use by the relevant authorities (eg, the US Food and Drug Administration).

  In another embodiment, higher concentrations of collagenase, or similar agents, are added to reduce digestion time. The washed adipose tissue and tissue disaggregation agent is then shaken in a manner similar to the shaking method described above until the washed adipose tissue is disaggregated. For example, the washed adipose tissue and tissue disaggregation agent rotates the entire collection chamber through an approximately 90 degree arc, provides a shaft that includes one or more paddles or protrusions that pass through the solution as the shaft rotates, and Alternatively, the entire collection chamber including paddles or protrusions on the inner surface of the collection chamber may be shaken.

  Depending on the purpose for which the adipose tissue-derived cells are used, the adipose tissue may be partially disaggregated or completely disaggregated. For example, in embodiments where adipose tissue-derived cells are combined with 1 unit of adipose tissue, the collected adipose tissue is partially disaggregated, a portion of the partially disaggregated adipose tissue is removed, and then Preferably, the disaggregation of the remaining adipose tissue remaining in the collection chamber is continued. Alternatively, a portion of the washed adipose tissue may be removed and placed in a sample container and set aside before digestion. In another embodiment, the collected adipose tissue may be partially disaggregated and the cells concentrated before being reintroduced into the patient. In one embodiment, the adipose tissue is mixed with a tissue disaggregation agent for a period of time generally less than about 20 minutes. A portion of this partially disaggregated tissue is then removed from the collection chamber and the remaining partially disaggregated tissue is further disaggregated by mixing the adipose tissue with a tissue disaggregation agent for an additional 40 minutes. If adipose tissue-derived cells are used as a virtually pure population of regenerative cells, the adipose tissue may be completely disaggregated.

  After digestion, the tissue and disaggregant solution are placed at rest for a time sufficient to distinguish the floating and non-floating components of the solution in the collection chamber. Typically this time is from about 15 seconds to a few minutes, although other times may be introduced in modified embodiments. The floating layer further contains regenerative cells that require additional washing and concentration. The non-buoyant layer contains blood, collagen, lipids, and other cellular components of the tissue other than the regenerative cells. Non-floating layers must be moved to the waste chamber.

  Accordingly, the collection chamber 20 has an outlet port at the lowest point of the chamber so that blood and other non-floating components of the tissue are discharged through the one or more conduits 12 toward the one or more waste containers 40. 22 is preferable. The collection chamber 20 takes an upright position (or may be placed in that position) so that the outlet port 22 is located at the bottom of the collection chamber. The discharge may be passive or active. For example, the aforementioned non-buoyant component can be discharged by gravity, by applying positive or negative pressure, by the pump 34, or by the exhaust pipe 32. In an automated embodiment, the processing device can also send signals to several valves and / or pumps to drain the non-floating layer from the collection chamber 20. The automated embodiment may also include a sensor 29 that can detect when an interface is realized between the suspended and non-suspended liquid. The automated embodiment may also include a sensor 29, for example an optical sensor capable of detecting a change in the optical refractive index of the effluent flowing through the conduit exiting the collection chamber. A suitable change in the photorefractive index transmits the presence of a floating layer in the outflow conduit, indicating that the non-floating layer has been expelled. The sensor 29 can then send a signal to the processing device to proceed to the next step.

  On the other hand, in some embodiments, the tissue may be processed to recover non-regenerative cellular components of the tissue. For example, in certain therapeutic or research applications, collagen, proteins, matrix or stroma components, lipids, adipocytes, or other cellular components of the tissue may be required. In such an embodiment, it is the floating layer that contains the regenerative cells that must be transferred to the waste chamber as described above. The non-floating layer is then retained in the system for further processing as needed.

  Once the non-floating layer has been removed, the floating layer containing regenerative cells may be washed one or more times to remove residual contaminants. Thus, the collection chamber 20 typically allows one or more ports 21 to allow cleaning liquid to be delivered inside the collection chamber, and allows waste and other materials to be discharged from the collection chamber 20. One or more ports 22 are included. For example, the collection chamber may include one or more sealed inlet ports as described herein. The collection chamber 20 also includes one or more caps (not shown) to further ensure that the system is sterile while the cleaning liquid is delivered to the collection chamber and / or while the waste liquid is drained. ), For example, may include a top cap and a bottom cap. The port 21 may be provided on the cap of the collection chamber or on the side wall of the collection chamber.

  The cleaning process with fresh cleaning liquid is repeated until the residual amount of non-floating contaminants in the solution reaches a specified level. In other words, the remaining material in the collection chamber 20, including the suspended matter of the aforementioned mixture, including adipose tissue fragments, may be further washed one or more times until the amount of unwanted material is reduced to the desired specified level. . One way to determine the end point of the wash is to measure the amount of red blood cells in the tissue fluid. This can be achieved by measuring the light absorbed at the 540 nm wavelength. In a preferred embodiment, a range between about 0.546 and about 0.842 is acceptable.

  During washing and / or deagglomeration, one or more additives may be added to the various containers as needed to further improve the results. Some examples of additives include agents that optimize washing and disaggregation, additives that enhance the viability of the active cell population during processing, antimicrobial agents (eg, antibiotics), adipocytes and / or Or an additive that degrades red blood cells or an additive that enriches the cell population of interest (by differential adhesion to a solid phase reactive group or other differential method that promotes substantial reduction or enrichment of the cell population) Is mentioned. Other possible additives include those that enhance regenerative cell recovery and viability (eg caspase inhibitors) or those that reduce the probability of adverse reactions upon injection or transplantation (eg cell or connective tissue reaggregation) Inhibitor).

  Of the obtained mixture of washed adipose tissue fragments and tissue disaggregation agent after sufficient resting time has elapsed, the non-suspended fraction is composed of regenerative cells such as stem cells and other adipose tissue-derived precursor cells. including. As discussed herein, the non-suspended fraction containing regenerative cells is transferred to the processing chamber 30, where the regenerative cells of interest, eg, adipose tissue-derived stem cells, are present in the non-suspended fraction of the mixture. Separated from other cells and substances. This non-suspended fraction is referred to herein as a regenerative cell component, and it can be used to reconstitute many types of cells, such as stem cells, progenitor cells, endothelial progenitor cells, adipocytes, and other regenerative cells as described herein. Includes cell types. Regenerative cell components also include one or more contaminants, such as collagen present in adipose tissue fragments, and other connective tissue proteins and fragments thereof, or residual collagenase used in the tissue disaggregation process, etc. There is.

  The treatment chamber 30 of the present invention is preferably placed in the system such that the regenerative cell composition is aseptically transferred from the collection chamber 20 through the tube 12, valve 14 and pump 34 to the treatment chamber 30. . The treatment chamber is sized to receive a tissue / fluid mixture ranging from 10 mL to 1.2 L. In a preferred embodiment, the processing chamber is sized to accommodate 800 mL. In some embodiments, the entire regenerative cell composition from collection chamber 20 is directed to processing chamber 30. On the other hand, in other embodiments, a portion of the regenerative cell composition is directed to the processing chamber 30 and another portion is directed to a different area of the system, for example, the sample chamber 60 and later processed in the processing chamber 30. Recombined with other cells.

  The processing chamber 30 may be constructed from any material that can be sterilized and that is biocompatible and suitable. In one preferred embodiment, the processing chamber 30 is constructed of a disposable material that meets the biocompatibility requirements for intravascular contact, as described in the ISO 10993 standard. For example, polycarbonate, acrylic, ABS, ethylene vinyl acetate, or styrene-butadiene copolymer (SBC) may be used. In another embodiment, the fluid path of the disposable processing chamber is pyrogen free. The processing chamber may take the form of a plastic bag, such as a bag typically used for processing blood in a blood bank, or in another embodiment, the chamber is structurally rigid. (Fig. 6). In one embodiment, the processing chamber 30 is commonly assigned to US patent application Ser. No. 10 / 316,127, filed Dec. 7, 2001, U.S. Patent Application No. 10, filed Dec. 20, 2002. / 325,728 may be similar to the processing chamber disclosed. In addition, it includes in this specification by referring the whole content of these patent documents.

  The processing chamber 30 may be constructed in any manner, including filtration and centrifugation, and / or combinations thereof, as long as it is suitable for separating and concentrating cells. In some embodiments, the regenerative cell composition obtained in the collection chamber 20 is introduced into the processing chamber 30, where the composition is filtered to separate and / or concentrate a particular regenerative cell population. . Cell filtration is a method of separating specific components and cells from other different components or cell types. For example, the regenerative cell composition of the present invention comprises a plurality of different types of cells, such as cells including precursor cells and adipocytes, and one or more contaminants such as collagen present in adipose tissue fragments, or Contains residual collagenase resulting from the tissue disaggregation process. A filter 36 present in the processing chamber 30 allows separation and enrichment of specific subpopulations of regenerative cells, such as stem cells or endothelial precursor cells.

  Some variables associated with filtering cells from fluid include: filter media pore size, pore shape (shape), filter surface area, direction of filtered solution, transmembrane pressure, specific cell population In addition to, but not limited to, dilution rate, particle size and shape, cell size and viability. In accordance with the disclosure herein, the particular cells desired to be separated or filtered are usually adipose tissue-derived stem cells. However, in some embodiments, certain cells may include adipose tissue-derived progenitor cells, such as endothelial progenitor cells alone, or endothelial progenitor cells in combination with stem cells.

  The regenerative cell composition may be passed through a filter assembly, such as filter assembly 36. In some embodiments, the filter assembly 36 includes a plurality of filters that are structured to perform various functions and separate the regenerative cell composition into separate parts or components. For example, one of the filters is configured to separate collagen from the regenerative cell composition, and one of the filters is configured to separate fat cells and / or lipid components from the regenerative cell composition. And one of the filters is configured to separate residual enzyme, eg, tissue disaggregation agent, from the regenerative cell composition. In certain embodiments, one of the filters can perform two functions, such as separating collagen and tissue disaggregation agent from the composition. The plurality of filters are usually arranged in series. However, at least some of the filters are also arranged in parallel. A series arrangement of the filter assemblies 36 is shown in FIG. A parallel arrangement of the filter assemblies 36 is shown in FIG.

  In one embodiment, the filter assembly 36 includes a first filter, a second filter, and a third filter. The first filter is configured to remove collagen particles present in the regenerative cell composition. These collagen particles are typically about 0.1 microns in diameter and can have a length of up to 20 microns. Collagen particles may have various sizes depending on digestion. Collagen can be fibrils. That is, it may have a twist or a crease. Any of the filters described herein may be made from polyethersulfone, polyester, PTFE, polypropylene, PVDF, or cellulose. There are two possibilities for filtering out collagen. One is to first remove relatively large particles and allow the cells to penetrate, which requires a filter in the 10 micron range, for example. The second method is to use a relatively small size filter, such as a 4.5 micron filter, to capture the cells and allow the collagen to pass through with the intention that the collagen is fully digested. . This requires a means to resuspend the cells away from the filter. There may also be the possibility of introducing a filter that attracts and holds the collagen fibers.

  The second filter is configured to remove free immature adipocytes that do not float in the regenerative cell components. In one embodiment, the second filter is constructed from polyester and has a pore size between about 30 and about 50 microns, with a preferred pore size being about 40 microns. Although referred to as a second filter, the installation of this device is performed at the first position rather than the second position to help remove relatively large cells and particles first. The third filter is configured to remove waste or residual collagenase or other tissue disaggregation agent in the composition. In a preferred embodiment, the collagenase may denature over time. In one embodiment, the third filter includes a plurality of pores having a diameter or length of less than 1 μm. In some embodiments, the pores may have a diameter of less than 1 μm. In another embodiment, the pores have a diameter between 10 kD and 5 microns. In some embodiments, the third filter is configured to concentrate the regenerative cell population in a small amount of saline or other washing solutions discussed herein. At present, the only final filter is the hollow fiber unit. It is not necessary that all of the fibers are of the hollow fiber type. Hollow fiber units are used in the final filter in a preferred embodiment. This is because it is most efficient at removing collagenase while minimizing its detrimental effects on regenerative cells. In an embodiment where the device is a collection of used items, the three filters are housed in separate housings. When the hollow fiber unit is used as the third filter, it is feasible to combine the first and second filters into one housing. If the final filter is not a hollow fiber device, all three filters can be included in a single housing.

  The filter of the filter assembly 36 may be disposed in the processing chamber 30, or may be installed as a component different from the processing chamber 30. Furthermore, the filters of the filter assembly 36 may be provided in a plurality of processing chambers or in series. In some embodiments, the conduit or tube may serve as one or more processing chambers. The processing chamber may be reduced in size to the internal capacity of the conduit connecting the filters. This type of system works well if the volume of tissue fluid has the right size. Thus, the conduit may act as a processing chamber by including fluid with the cells as the fluid passes through the filter. Care must be taken to minimize the volume of the conduit so that cells / tissues are not unnecessarily lost in the process of preparing and operating the system.

  Referring to the foregoing embodiments, washed cells and residual collagen, adipocytes, and / or undigested tissue disaggregation agent are passed through the first filter, thereby preferably at least a portion of the collagen particles, preferably Substantially all of it is removed from the composition so that there is little, preferably no collagen particles present in the filtrate. The filtered regenerative cell composition comprising adipocytes and / or undigested tissue disaggregation agent is then passed through a second filter, whereby at least a portion of free adipocytes, preferably substantially All is removed from the filtered regenerative cell composition. This twice filtered regenerative cell composition then contains undigested tissue disaggregation agent, but is passed through a third filter, eg, a hollow fiber filtration device as discussed herein, to obtain undigested The tissue disaggregation agent is reduced or removed from the regenerative cell composition.

  This triple filtered regenerative cell composition (ie, the composition that remains after passing through the first, second, and third filters) is then directed to multiple outlets. These outlets include a portion of the processing chamber 30 that includes a plurality of outlets. These outlets not only help to maintain the required pressure, but also provide a connection to other containers through the conduit. Such containers include a collection chamber 20, an exit chamber 50, and / or a waste chamber 40.

  In one embodiment, the filter of filter assembly 36 includes a hollow fiber filtration member. Or in other words, the filter comprises a hollow fiber assembly formed of filter media. Examples of filters that can be used with the disclosed system 10 include polysulfone, polyethylene sulfone, or mixed ester materials. These hollow fibers or tubes of filter media may be housed in a cylindrical cartridge of the filter assembly 36. Individual tubes or fibers of filter media typically have an inner diameter in the range of about 0.1 mm to 1 mm, with a preferred value of about 0.5 mm. The diameter and length of a suitable cylindrical cartridge will determine the number of individual tubes with filter members that can be contained within the cartridge. One example of a suitable hollow fiber filter cartridge is the FiberFlo® tangential flow filter, # M-C-050-K (Minntech, Minneapolis, MN). The pore size of the filter media may be in the range between about 10 kilodaltons and about 5 microns, with a preferred pore size being about 0.5 microns.

  In the hollow fiber filter, each hollow tube has a main body, a first end, a second end, and a cavity that is disposed in the main body and extends between the first end and the second end. The body of each hollow tube includes a plurality of holes. The arrangement of the pores in the body is generally such that the regenerative cell composition is filtered by flowing through the body cavity, and the filtered product passes through the pores tangentially as shown in FIG. 12A. Is called. In other words, relatively small particles in the liquid pass through the hole tangentially to the flow of liquid through the body cavity. A composition containing regenerative cells passes through the cavity of each hollow tube as the composition is filtered. The composition flow is preferably tangential to the holes in the body of each hollow tube.

  By using a fluid flowing in the tangential direction, the efficiency of stem cell filtration appears to be enhanced compared to other filtration techniques. For example, according to some filtration techniques, the pores of the filter media are oriented in a direction perpendicular to the fluid flow so that the filter blocks the passage of fluid to be filtered, as shown in FIG. 12B. It is installed in such a way. In this type of filtration, particles that are filtered from the regenerative cell composition, such as stem cells, tend to accumulate on one side of the filter and prevent fluid flow through the pores. This blockage can reduce the efficiency of the filter. Furthermore, the cells are constantly squeezed not only by the fluid pressure, but also by the weight of the cells that accumulate upstream of the filter. This leads to an increase in stem cell necrosis. Thus, in such a filtration technique where the fluid flow is parallel to the direction of the pores in the filter, both large and small cells are forced against the filter media as the fluid passes through the pores. . Thus, large products in the fluid, such as cells, can block the pores, reduce the filtering action, and increase the occurrence of cell rupture or damage.

  On the other hand, in the hollow fiber configuration of the present system 10, the fluid to be filtered flows through the hollow fiber cavity. The portion of the fluid that can pass through the pores of the filter body is filtered with the help of not only the positive pressure of the fluid inside the body but also the negative pressure applied to the outside of the body. In this embodiment, the cells are usually not affected by fluid pressure or other cell weights, so the shear force on the stem cells is reduced. Thus, the efficiency and effectiveness of filtration is improved by lowering the occlusion rate and lowering regenerative cell degradation. During filtration, the saline solution and unnecessary protein molecules pass through the holes of the hollow tube main body due to their sizes, exit to the outside of the hollow tube, and head toward the waste container 40. In one embodiment, filtration is enhanced by generating a vacuum outside the hollow tube filter media. Regenerative cells, such as stem cells or precursor cells, usually cannot pass through the pores of the body due to their size, so they stay inside the hollow tube filter (eg, the lumen of the tube) and between the filter and the processing chamber. It is either returned to the processing chamber 30 through the conduit or directed to the output chamber 50.

In one particular embodiment, the hollow fiber filter comprises a filter media having a pore size of about 0.05 microns and a surface area of about 550 cm ² . Individual media tubes typically have a diameter of about 0.5 mm. To process 130 ml of regenerative cell composition, an additional approximately 120 ml of saline is added to the composition. Treatment or filtration time may be about 8 minutes. The pressure difference between both sides of the hollow fiber tube main body (for example, the internal pressure of the main body cavity and the pressure outside the main body) is considered as the transmembrane pressure. The transmembrane pressure may be in the range of about 1 mmHg to about 500 mmHg, but a preferred pressure is about 200 mmHg. The average recovery and viability of nucleated cells by hollow fiber filtration is about 80% of live cells.

  Usually the amount of collagenase removed in such a system is equal to a 3 log drop. For example, if the initial concentration of collagenase in the regenerative cell composition transferred from the collection chamber to the treatment chamber is 0.078 U / ml, the collagenase concentration in the final regenerative cell composition is 0.00078 U / ml. It is a spear. Collagenase is removed by a hollow fiber filter, which corresponds to the third filter described above.

  A processing chamber that specifically illustrates one or more of the cell filtration methods described above is shown in the drawings, particularly in FIGS. 1-3. 1-3, a pump, for example, a pump 34, is provided between the processing chamber 30 and the filtration chamber of the filter assembly 36. In addition, ventilation and pressure sensors, such as ventilation 32 and pressure sensor 39, are provided linearly with process chamber 30 and filter assembly 36. A connector for the output chamber 50 may also be provided. These optional components (eg, pump 34, vent 32, pressure sensor 39, and connection to output chamber 50) that may be optionally provided are provided between processing chamber 30 and filter assembly 36. The liquid contained in the processing chamber 30 may flow toward one or more of the selected components before reaching the filter assembly 36. For example, the liquid may flow through the pump 34 before reaching the filter assembly 36. Alternatively, the liquid may pass through the pressure sensor 39 before passing through the filter assembly to allow the pre-filter hydraulic pressure of the system to be acquired. Under certain circumstances, one or more of the above components may be provided as an element of the processing chamber 30, for example, the vent 32 shown in FIG. In the illustrated embodiment, the pressure sensor 39 is arranged to determine the regenerative cell composition pressure produced by the pump 34 as the regenerative cell composition enters the filtration chamber of the filter assembly 36. This configuration facilitates monitoring of the transmembrane pressure across the filtration membrane. As the regenerative cell composition is filtered by the filter assembly 36, additional saline or other buffers and washings can be added to the composition to help remove unwanted proteins. This repeated washing can be performed multiple times to increase the purity of the regenerative cells. In some embodiments, the saline solution can be added at any step required to enhance filtration.

  In one particular embodiment, provided for purposes of illustration and not limitation, unwanted proteins and saline or other washings are removed as follows. A composition comprising regenerative cells, collagen and connective tissue particles or fragments, adipocytes, and collagenase is circulated through a series of filters until a minimum volume is achieved. The minimum capacity is a function of the system's total holding capacity and some specified constant. The retention volume is the volume of liquid contained in the tubes and conduits when all processing chambers are empty. In one embodiment, the minimum volume is 15 ml. When the minimum volume is reached, a specified volume of wash solution is introduced into the system and mixed with the regenerative cell composition. This mixture of wash solution and regenerative cell composition is circulated while passing through the difilter until the minimum volume is reached again. This circulation is repeated multiple times to increase the purity of the regenerative cells, in other words, to increase the ratio of regenerative cells in the composition relative to other substances in the composition. See FIGS. 10 and 11.

From the regenerative cell composition, unwanted protein was washed away and fully concentrated (in the exemplary embodiment, a minimum concentration in the range of about 1 × 10 ⁵ to 1 × 10 ⁷ cells / ml can be used. However, in a preferred embodiment, the minimum concentration is about 1 × 10 ⁷ cells / ml) after confirmation of the output chamber 50, eg, the output bag, depending on the particular embodiment, the processing chamber 30 And / or connected to the outlet port of the filter assembly 36. Next, ventilation, for example, ventilation 32 may be opened to facilitate the output of concentrated regenerative cells. In one embodiment, confirmation of this minimum concentration is done empirically after prior experimentation and introduction as a program into the electronic control of the device. Confirmation can also be an input that is introduced into the process of realizing what is desired to be produced, ie, how many stem / progenitor cells are needed, or what range of cell concentrations is needed. Is possible. In order to achieve the desired output, it is necessary to acquire a predetermined amount of adipose tissue based on scientific data and install it in the system. By opening vent 32 and operating a pump, eg, pump 34, it is possible to transfer the concentrated regenerative cells to the output bag. In one embodiment, the output bag 50 is similar to an empty blood bag having a tube that includes a connector at one end. The output bag connector may be attached to the output port, and the concentrated regenerative cells may be transferred to the output bag.

  As depicted in FIGS. 1-3, a vacuum pump 26 may be provided in the system 10 to change the system pressure first and foremost. For example, the vacuum pump 26 may be coupled to the collection chamber 20 via a conduit, such as the conduit 12b, to provide a pressure drop in the collection chamber 20. The vacuum pump 26 may also be coupled to the processing chamber 30 via a conduit, such as conduit 12g. With respect to the operation of the vacuum pump 26 in connection with the pump 34, two separate pumps or sources may be introduced, or direct the vacuum traction to the various conduits required at a particular point in the process. A single pump may be introduced by using a valve. Further, the vacuum pump 26 may be coupled to the waste container 40 via a conduit, such as conduit 12f.

  Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, the pressure generated by the vacuum pump 26 is used to direct a fluid flow containing regenerative cells to the conduit 12. This pressure can be supplied in multiple directions by automatically or manually adjusting the position of one or more valves 14 of the system 10. The system 10 can be manufactured to function properly by using positive pressure, or by using negative pressure, or a combination thereof. For example, regenerative cells can be pulled through the first and second filters described above and drawn into a side flexible container connected to a third filter. The flexible side container may be connected in a straight line (in series) at the tip of the third filter. The final output chamber may be a flexible side container on the other side (eg, downstream) of the third container. In this embodiment, regenerative cells are moved using pressure from one flexible side container to a second flexible side container via a filter.

  In another embodiment of the system 10, filtration of stem cells and / or adipose tissue-derived precursor cells may be achieved using a combination of osmotic filtration and sediment. For example, the system uses a saline solution that passes through a tissue regeneration cell composition (eg, a composition comprising stem cells and / or adipose-derived precursor cells) and then through a filter. Some of the variables associated with harvesting cells from the regenerative cell composition by osmotic filtration include the pore size of the filter media, the pore size or shape, the surface area of the filter, the direction of flow of the regenerated cell composition being filtered, Examples include, but are not limited to, infused saline flow rate, transmembrane pressure, cell population dilution, cell size and viability.

  In one embodiment of the system 10, the processing chamber 30 uses a filter assembly 36 that performs osmotic filtration and sedimentation to separate and concentrate regenerative cells. By way of example and not limitation, the processing chamber 30 is defined as a generally cylindrical body having a side wall 30a, a top surface 30b, and a bottom surface 30c, as shown in FIG. A sterilization vent 32 is provided on the top surface 30b.

In the embodiment of FIG. 6, the processing chamber 30 is depicted as including a filter assembly 36 including two filters, for example, a large hole filter 36a and a small hole filter 36b. The apertures of filters 36a and 36b are in the range between about 0.05 microns and about 10 microns. The large pore filter 36a may include pores having a diameter of about 5 μm, and the small pore filter 36b may include pores having a diameter of about 1-3 μm. In one embodiment, the filter has a surface area of about 785 mm ² . The filters 36a and 36b divide the inside of the processing chamber 30 and include a first chamber 37a, a second chamber 37b, and a third chamber 37c. As shown in FIG. 6, the first chamber 37a is disposed between the second chamber 37b and the third chamber 37c. Further, the first chamber 37a is shown as an area of the processing chamber 30 having an inlet port 31a and an outlet port 31b. The illustrated processing chamber 30 includes a plurality of ports, for example, ports 31 a, 31 b, and 31 c, that supply a traffic passage that connects the outside of the processing chamber 30 to the inside of the processing chamber 30. The ports 31a, 31b, and 31c are depicted as being disposed on the side wall 30a of the body of the processing chamber 30. However, the ports 31a, 31b, and 31c can be arranged in other regions. Port 31a is depicted as a sample inlet port. That is, it is constructed to bind to the conduit so that the composition containing the regenerative cells can enter the interior of the processing chamber 30. The port 31b is depicted as an outlet port that is coupled and constructed in a conduit so that separated and concentrated cells can be removed from the interior of the processing chamber 30. Port 31 c is depicted as an inlet port that is coupled and constructed to a conduit for delivering fresh cleaning fluid, eg, saline, to the interior of processing chamber 30.

  In use, regenerative cells may be introduced into the central chamber 37a through the inlet port 31a. Saline or other buffer is introduced into the bottom chamber 37b through the inlet port 31c. The saline solution may be passed through the regenerative cell composition in chamber 37a at a rate of about 10 ml / min. The flow rate of the saline is adjusted to oppose gravity. The saline flow gives the cells in the chamber the ability to separate according to cell density. Usually, depending on the degree to which cells are forced to penetrate the composition, relatively large cells in the composition will settle to the bottom of the central chamber 37a, and small cells and proteins will pass through the second filter 36b. It penetrates and is carried away to the top chamber 37c. This filtration is achieved by adjusting the flow rate of the saline so that large cells remain in place and roll, while small particles are released and carried away with the saline. Chamber 30 includes a sterile vent 32 so that the proper pressure gradient is maintained in the three chambers within the processing unit. The upper chamber 37c may include the absorption medium 33. The purpose of this absorbent medium is to ensure that unwanted proteins in the solution are captured and that they do not return to the original processing liquid across the filter medium if, for example, the saline solution is slowed down. It is to do. The absorbent medium may be a type of filter material that is absorbent or attracts substances or components for filtering off. An outlet port may be added above the top filter to assist in the drainage of the effluent. Another embodiment described above is to apply a gentle vacuum from the top to facilitate suction of the waste liquid. As in the illustrated embodiment, an absorbent medium may be introduced when the flow rate is relatively small. Next, excess saline and protein are carried away to the waste container.

  Once the large cells (eg, adipose tissue-derived stem cells and / or precursor cells) are sufficiently separated from the small cells and proteins, the composition comprising the separated cells is concentrated in the manner discussed herein. The The composition may be further concentrated after it is removed from the chamber 37a through the outlet port 31b, or it may be concentrated while the composition is in the chamber 37a. In one embodiment, the concentration of cells in the composition is increased in the following manner. After the cells are sufficiently separated, the filters, eg, filters 36a and 36b, may be brought closer together. This movement has the effect of reducing the capacity between the two filters (for example, the capacity of the chamber 37a). In order to facilitate the concentration of cells in the composition, a vibrating member may be provided in conjunction with the treatment chamber 30. In one embodiment, the vibrating member may be coupled with a filter 36b (eg, a small pore size filter). Vibration can reduce the frequency with which cells are trapped in the filter. By reducing the volume of the composition, it is possible to remove excess saline as waste and concentrate the cells into a smaller volume.

  In another embodiment, enrichment of regenerative cells is achieved as follows. After the cells are sufficiently separated, the regenerative cell composition can be transferred to another chamber (not shown) that uses gravity to filter out excess saline. In a preferred embodiment, sedimentation is performed simultaneously with osmotic filtration. This sedimentation is performed by introducing the composition onto a filter having a pore size in the range of about 10 kD to about 2 microns. In one embodiment, a suitable filter has a pore size of about 1 micron. Gravity allows saline and small particles to pass through the filter, while preventing cells in the composition from flowing through the filter. After the desired concentration of cells is obtained and the filtered small particles are removed from under the filter, the regenerative cell composition is shaken, the cells are detached from the filter, and the concentrated regenerative cells are then transferred to the output bag. Is done. Small particles can be sucked out from the outlet as waste liquid.

  In certain embodiments, the regenerative cell composition from collection chamber 20 is transported to treatment chamber 30, where the composition is centrifuged to separate and concentrate the regenerative cells. The centrifuge principle is well known in the prior art and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity. Standard and known centrifuges, components and parameters are also utilized in the present invention. An exemplary processing chamber used as part of a centrifuge is shown in FIGS. Typically, a centrifuge device rotates a centrifuge chamber (eg, as shown in FIG. 7) about an axis, thereby increasing the force applied to the cells in solution to be greater than gravity. The relatively dense and heavy material in the solution settles at one end of the centrifugal chamber, ie, the output chamber 50 of FIG. 7, forming a regenerative cell pellet. The pellet may then be resuspended to obtain the desired concentration of cells and / or the desired volume of cells and media. The processing chamber shown in FIG. 7 is constructed to separate and concentrate cells using both centrifugal force and gravity. Specifically, during centrifugation, centrifugal force directs relatively dense components of the regenerative cell composition, such as regenerative cells, toward the outermost end of the centrifuge chamber. As the centrifuge chamber slows and eventually stops, gravity helps the regenerative cells stay at the outermost end of the centrifuge chamber and form a cell pellet. Thus, unwanted components of the regenerative cell composition, ie, waste, can be removed without interfering with the cell pellet.

  In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the processing chamber includes a cell concentrator in the form of a rotating membrane filter. In yet another embodiment of the centrifugation process, centrifugal elutriation may be used. In this embodiment, the cells are based on individual cell sedimentation rates that are selected such that the cells and solutes sediment at different rates due to the directional force applied by centrifugation (eg, outward). To be separated. In elutriation, the sedimentation of the target cell population is countered by an opposite (eg, inward) flow rate applied by pumping the solution in the opposite direction to the centrifugal force. This counter flow is adjusted so that the cells and particles in the solution are separated. L-triation has been applied to many cell separation cases (Inoue, Carsten et al., 1981; Hayner, Braun et al., 1984; Noga 1999), a principle used to optimize flow and centrifugation parameters. Those skilled in the art can apply this situation to this situation in light of this disclosure.

  FIG. 9 illustrates the principles associated with the implementation of an elicitation according to the present invention. The elutriation embodiment may be similar to the centrifugal embodiment to the extent that force is applied to the solution by a rotating rotor. Some of the variables related to the erration separation performed here are the size and shape of the rotating chamber, the diameter of the rotor, the speed of the rotor, the diameter of the counterflow tube, the flow velocity of the counterflow, and the extracted from the solution. There are, but are not limited to, particle and cell size and density. As with centrifugation, regenerative cells are separated based on individual cell density.

  In one embodiment, a regenerative cell composition, eg, a solution comprising regenerative cells and collagenase, is introduced into the rotating rotor chamber, as shown in FIG. 9.1. As the solution is added to the chamber, additional saline is added to the chamber at a specified flow rate. The saline flow rate can be pre-specified as a function of rotor speed, cell diameter, and empirically defined chamber constant. This flow rate is adjusted, for example, by a device similar to an IV pump. The purpose of the additional saline solution is to provide a condition in the rotor chamber where relatively large particles move to one side of the chamber and relatively small particles move to the other side, as shown in Figure 9.2. is there. In this application, the flow is adjusted so that small particles exit the chamber and move to a waste container, as shown in FIG. 9.3. This movement causes the rotor chamber solution to have a substantially uniform population of cells, for example stem cells. After confirming that the stem cells have been separated from the remaining elements in solution (unwanted protein and free lipids have been removed from the chamber), the counterflow is stopped. Next, the cells inside the chamber form a concentrated pellet on the outer wall of the chamber. The counter flow is reversed and the cell pellet is transferred to the output bag.

  As previously described herein, the processing chamber 30 or output chamber 50 may include one or more ports, for example, ports 51 or 52. One or more of these ports can be used to connect regenerative cells obtained by any combination of the aforementioned methods, or portions thereof, through a conduit to other surgical devices, cell culture devices, cell osmotic pressure adjustment devices, It may be designed to be transported to a gene therapy device or a purification device. These ports also allow the regenerative cells to be transported through conduits to additional chambers or containers in the system or to chambers or containers as part of another system for the same purpose as described above. May be designed. Ports and conduits also include one or more additives such as growth factors, resuspension fluids, cell culture reagents, cell expansion reagents, cell storage reagents, or cell modification reagents including reagents that transfer genes to cells, etc. May be used to add other additives. Ports and conduits may also be used to transport regenerative cells toward other targets, such as implant materials (eg, supports or bone fragments), and other surgical implants and devices.

  If you want to process the cells further, you can reconfigure the existing system's disposable set interconnects, provide additional containers and / or chambers that are different from or for the existing system, It may be performed by transporting to a system or device and / or introducing any combination of the above. For example, the system is reconfigured using means arbitrarily selected from the aforementioned means such that the regenerative cells obtained by the system are used for one or more of the following applications. Cell expansion (for one or more regenerative cell types) and cell maintenance (cell sheet washing and culture medium exchange); subculture; cell seeding; transient transfection (transfect selected from among large supply) Collection (including cell seeding); collection (enzymatic, non-enzymatic collection and collection by mechanical scraping); measurement of cell viability; cell plate seeding (eg, for microtiter plates, individual for expansion) Including removal of cells from wells and expansion of cells into fresh wells); high-throughput screening; cell therapy applications; gene therapy applications; tissue engineering applications; therapeutic protein applications; viral vaccine applications; deposit or screening, cells Collection of regenerative cells or supernatants for proliferation measurement, degradation, inoculation, infection or induction; generation of cell lines ( Culturing cells for osmotic pressure experiments; cells for RNAi and virus resistance; cells for knockout and transgenic animal experiments; affinity purification experiments; structural biology applications; assay development and protein engineering applications.

  For example, if an expansion of a regenerative cell population is required for a particular application, the population is selectively expanded while other populations are maintained (and thus reduced by dilution with growth-selected cells) Can be used), or a remedy using culture conditions that are lost due to lack of the necessary growth conditions can be used. Sekiya et al. Describe conditions that can be adopted for bone marrow-derived stem cells for this purpose (Sekiya et al., 2002). This method (with or without differential adhesion to tissue culture plastic) can be applied to yet another embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the final regenerative cell pellet is removed from the output chamber and placed in a second system that provides cell culture components. This can be done using conventional laboratory tissue culture incubators or bioreactor style devices such as Tsao et al., US Pat. No. 6,001,642, Armstrong et al. US Pat. No. 6,238,908. It is also possible to take the form of a device similar to that described in. In another embodiment, cell expansion or cell culture components can be added to an existing system, such as an output chamber, to allow short-term adhesion and / or cell culture of adipose tissue-derived cell populations. This alternative allows cell culture and / or cell expansion components to be integrated into the system so that the cells need not be removed from the system and placed in another system.

  During processing, one or more additives may be added or supplied as needed in connection with various chambers or containers to enhance the results. These additives may also be supplied as part of another system associated with the existing system or separate from the existing system. For example, in certain embodiments, the additive is added or supplied without the need to remove regenerative cells from the system. In another embodiment, the additive is added or supplied by aseptically connecting a new container or chamber containing the additive to an unused port of the system. In yet another embodiment, the additive is added or supplied to a second system or device that is not connected to the system of the present invention. Some examples of additives include agents described herein that optimize washing and disaggregation, additives that enhance the viability of the active cell population during processing, antimicrobial agents (eg, antibiotics) Substance), an additive that degrades fat cells and / or erythrocytes, or an additive that enriches the cell population of interest (differential adhesion to a solid phase reactive group, or other, substantially reducing or enriching the cell population. By discriminatory methods to promote).

  For example, to obtain a uniform regenerative cell population, any method suitable for isolating and enriching a specific regenerative cell type, such as on stem cells, or progenitor cells such as endothelial progenitor cells A method using a cell-specific antibody that recognizes and binds to an existing antigen may be employed. These include both positive selection (selecting target cells), negative selection (selective removal of unwanted cells), or a combination thereof. In addition, a solid phase material with an adhesion selected to allow differential adhesion and / or elution of a particular regenerative cell population contained in the final cell pellet is inserted into the output chamber of the system. Is possible.

  Another embodiment of this differential adhesion method involves the use of antibodies and / or antibody combinations that recognize surface molecules that are differentially expressed in target regenerative and unwanted cells. Selection based on the expression of specific cell surface markers (or combinations thereof) is yet another commonly used technique for attaching antibodies to solid support structures (directly or indirectly) (Geiselhart et al., 1996; Formanek et al., 1998; Graepler et al., 1998; Kobari et al., 2001; Mohr et al., 2001).

  In another embodiment, the cell pellet is resuspended, placed on (or below) the liquid material formed as a continuous or non-continuous density gradient, transferred to a centrifuge, and based on cell density A cell population is separated. In a similar embodiment, continuous flow methods such as component transfusion (Smith, 1997), and erration (with or without counterflow) (Lasch et al., 2000) (Ito and Shinomiya, 2001) may also be used. Good.

  Other examples of additives include additional biological or structural components, such as cell differentiation factors, growth enhancers, immunosuppressive agents, medical devices, such as those discussed herein, or any of them Combinations are listed. For example, other cells, tissues, tissue fragments, growth factors such as VEGF and other known angiogenic or arteriogenic growth factors, biologically active or inactive compounds, resorbable supports, or regenerative cell populations Other additives may be added that are intended to enhance transport, efficacy, resistance, or function of the. A regenerative cell population can also be a cell culture system (described herein) by inserting DNA to induce structural or therapeutic objects, or in a manner that alters, enhances or supplements the function of regenerative cells. May be modified by installation as described in the document or in a manner known in the art. For example, gene transfer techniques for stem cells are known to those of skill in the art as disclosed in (Morizono et al., 2003; Mosca et al., 2000), and viral transfection techniques, more particularly ( Walther and Stein, 2000) and (Athanasopoulos et al., 2000) may include adeno-associated viral gene transfer techniques. Non-viral techniques may also be performed as disclosed in (Muramatsu et al., 1998). It is also possible to add one or more cell differentiation factors, such as growth factor (s) or cytokine (s). Examples of various cell differentiation agents are (Gimble et al., 1995; Lennon et al., 1995; Majumdar et al., 1998; Caplan and Goldberg, 1999; Ohgushi and Caplan, 1999; Pittenger et al., 1999; Caplan and Bruder, 2001; Fukuda, 2001; Worster et al., 2001; Zuk et al., 2001). It is also possible to add genes encoding anti-adipose tissue factor or intervening molecules. The addition of a gene (or a combination of genes) can be done by any technique known in the art, eg, adenovirus transduction, “gene gun”, liposome-mediated transduction, and retrovirus or lentivirus-mediated transduction, plasmids It can also be done by techniques involving adeno-associated viruses. However, the technology is not limited to the above. These regenerative cells can then be implanted with a carrier material. The carrier material is responsible for the gene transport vehicle that releases and / or presents the gene to the cell over time, thereby allowing transduction to continue or be activated in the body.

  When administering a cell and / or tissue containing a cell to a patient other than the patient from which the cell and / or tissue was obtained, one or more immunosuppressions for the patient receiving the cell and / or tissue Agents may be administered, preferably to prevent transplant rejection. As used herein, “immunosuppressive agent or mediator” is intended to include agents that suppress or interfere with normal immune function. Examples of suitable immunosuppressive agents for the methods disclosed herein include agents that inhibit the T cell / B cell costimulatory pathway, such as the CTLA4 and B7 pathways as disclosed in US Patent Publication No. 20020101821 And agents that interfere with T cell and B cell binding through A preferred immunosuppressive agent is cyclosporin A. Other examples include myophenylate mofetil, rapamycin, and antithymocyte globulin. In one embodiment, the immunosuppressive agent is administered with at least one other therapeutic agent. The immunosuppressive agent is administered in a formulation that is compatible with the route of administration and is administered to the subject at a dose sufficient to achieve the desired therapeutic effect. In another embodiment, the immunosuppressive agent is administered transiently for a period of time sufficient to induce resistance to the regenerative cells of the invention.

  In the above embodiments, the regenerative cells are contacted with, combined with, mixed with, or mixed with the additive in any manner known in the art, including devices such as the shaking devices described herein and related methods. It may be added to the additive. For example, rocking, reverse rotation, compression type, pulsed or continuously moving rollers may be used.

  In another aspect, the cell population is a legitimate plastic coating or other material and related components, such as those produced by MacroPore Biosurgery, for introduction into a recipient (eg, US Pat. No. 6,269). , 716; 5,919,234; 6,673,362; 6,635,064; 6,653,146; 6,391,059; 6,343,531; 6,280, 473).

  In all of the above embodiments, at least a portion of the separated and enriched regenerative cells is a US patent application Ser. No. 10 / 242,094 registered on Sep. 12, 2002, entitled “Preservation of non-hematopoietic tissue-derived non-embryonic cells”. Stored frozen as described in the issue. The patent document claims the benefit of US Provisional Application No. 60 / 322,070, filed September 14, 2001, by a common applicant. In addition, it is expressly included in the present specification by referring to the entirety of these patent documents.

  As described herein, regenerative cells obtained by the systems and methods of the present invention include a wide variety of cell types, including regenerative cells. Usually, a range of various cell types is shown in Table II. However, this range depends on factors including donor age, medical condition, and how the tissue is obtained. However, the factors are not limited to the above. For example, tissue removed by adipose tissue excision (resection) has a relatively low blood content, and thus the number of residual mature blood cells, such as lymphocytes, in the final product is relatively low. Similarly, reinforcing treatments such as counter-flow elutriation, density centrifugation, differential bonding, and other treatments outlined herein will significantly alter this range through design and intent.

  In addition to the above, there are many post-wash methods that can be used to further purify the active cell population. Such methods include positive selection (selection of target cells), negative selection (selective removal of unwanted cells), or combinations thereof. Through all of the positive and negative selections described herein, the selection material used is free of endotoxin, penetrates and does not penetrate into the active cell population, and exists in the active cell population. Does not activate any type, eg, preadipocytes, tissue macrophages, or monocytes. Furthermore, the system in which this procedure is performed is sterile, closed without contamination, or functionally closed. This system may be fully integrated with the system used in the early stages of manufacture, or by creation of a sterile flow path from the aforementioned system described herein, or from the system It may be a separate module connected by aseptic or antiseptic transfer of substances.

  At the end of the process, the regenerative cells are manually recovered from the output chamber. The cells may be loaded into a transport device, such as a syringe. This is for introduction into the recipient by subcutaneous, intramuscular or other techniques that allow the cells to be delivered to a target site within the patient. In other words, the cells may be introduced into the patient by any means known to those skilled in the art. Preferred embodiments include introduction by needle or catheter, or introduction by direct surgical implantation. In other embodiments, the cells may be automatically transported to an output chamber that takes the form of a container, syringe, or catheter that may be used to introduce the cells into the patient. The container may also be used for cell storage for subsequent use or cryopreservation. All recovery methods are performed aseptically. In embodiments of surgical implantation, the cells can also be administered in contact with an additive, eg, a preformed matrix or support as described herein.

  In a preferred embodiment of the present invention (eg, the embodiment shown in FIG. 4), the system is automated. In another embodiment, the system has both automated and manual components. The system may include one or more disposable components attached to a renewable component or module. The automation system of the present invention provides a screen display (see FIG. 16) that facilitates proper operation of the system. The automation system also provides a screen that provides step-by-step instructions regarding the state of the process and / or proper setting of the system's disposable components. The screen may also indicate system problems or failures when they occur and may provide “repair” guidance if appropriate. In one embodiment, the screen is a user interface screen that allows a user to enter parameters into the system, for example, via a touch screen.

  Partially and fully automated systems provide processing equipment (eg, a microprocessor or personal computer) and regulation logic to automate the operation of the system and one or more steps of the process based on user input Related software may be included. In some implementations, one or more aspects of the system may be enabled for user programming via software installed on the processing device. The processing device may have one or more pre-programmed software programs in a read only memory (ROM). For example, the processing device acquires designated program software specifically designed for processing blood, a separate program for processing adipose tissue to acquire a small volume of regenerative cells, and a larger volume of regenerative cells You may have yet another program to process adipose tissue. The processor also performs the process based on input of relevant user information such as the amount of regenerative cells required, the type of tissue to be processed, the type of post-treatment operations required, the type of therapeutic application, etc. You may have designated program creation software that provides users with suitable parameters to optimize.

  The software also adjusts multiple steps, eg, fluid and tissue inflow and outflow along a particular tube path by adjusting the pumps and valves of the system; in the proper sequence and / or direction of activation Adjustment; detection of occlusion by pressure sensors; measurement of the amount of tissue and / or fluid moved along a specific path by a volumetric mechanism; maintenance of the temperature of various components by a heating control device; and separation and concentration processes; Automation of processes such as timing and integration with software mechanisms may be possible. The processing device may also include the type of tissue being processed, and / or the cell population or subpopulation to be collected, and the type of procedure being performed (eg, tissue augmentation with regenerative cell augmented adipose tissue, or regenerative cell coated bone Allows adjustment of centrifugal speed based on cell treatment for bone repair applications with grafts. The processing device may also include a standard parallel or serial port, or other means for communicating with other computers or networks. Thus, the processing means may be a stand-alone unit or may be coupled to one or more additional devices for further processing methods described herein.

  The software includes "operational data" such as disposable component lot number, temperature and volume measurements, tissue volume and cell number parameters, dose of given enzyme, incubation time, operator name, date and time, patient name, etc. Automated collection of data may be feasible. A preferred embodiment of the device incorporates a character recognition system, such as a barcode reading system, which allows the above variables (eg, disposable set lot number and expiration date, collagenase lot number and expiration date, patient / Data entry of sample specific codes etc. is made possible as part of the process documentation. This will reduce the chances of data entry mistakes. Such a barcode reading system can be easily incorporated into a processing device using USB and other ports and systems known in the prior art. In this way, the device provides integrated control of data entry and process documentation. A printout report of these parameters becomes part of the user-defined parameters of the system's programmed operation. Of course, this requires the integration of printer components (hardware and drivers), or printer drivers in software, plus, printer interface output connectors (eg, USB ports) in the hardware of the device.

  In some embodiments, the system is a fully automated system. For example, when the user initially selects the amount of tissue to be processed and connects the system to the patient, the system automatically aspirates the requested tissue in sequence so that it flows without further user input. Then, regenerated cells are separated and concentrated. The user may also enter the amount of regenerative cells required and have the system aspirate the required amount of tissue and further process the tissue. Fully automated systems may also include reconfigurable systems based on user input parameters, such as the number of wash cycles, centrifuge speeds, etc. (eg, two or more). The system can also be operated in semi-automatic mode. In that case, the system performs several steps without user intervention, but requires user intervention before a process occurs. In another embodiment, the system is a single integrated system that displays instructions that direct the user to perform a specified operation at a specified time. For example, the processing device may prompt and guide the user throughout the steps necessary for proper insertion of system tubes, chambers, and other components. Thus, the user can verify that the proper sequence of operations is performed. Such a system can also require confirmation by the user for each operation step to prevent inadvertent activation or termination of the process. In yet another embodiment, the system may initiate an automated test to confirm proper insertion of the tube, chamber, absence of occlusion, and the like. In yet another embodiment, the system of the present invention is programmed to perform multiple separation and concentration processes by automatically adjusting the flow of tissue circulating through the system. This characteristic is important during surgery in which a patient collects tissue that may otherwise be lost, introduces it into the system, concentrates and separates regenerative cells from the tissue and returns it to the patient. Become.

  As previously mentioned, the components of the system may be disposable (referred to herein as “disposable sets”) such that portions of the system can be disposed of after a single use. This embodiment may help to ensure that all surfaces in contact with the patient's tissue are properly disposed of after use. An exemplary disposable set is shown in FIG. In a preferred embodiment, the disposable components of the system are pre-sterilized and packaged for use in “inventory”. This simplifies use and load and eliminates the need for numerous tube connections and complicated stroke determinations. Such disposable components are relatively inexpensive to manufacture and therefore disposing them does not incur substantial expense. In one embodiment, the disposable system (referred to herein interchangeably as “disposable set (s)”) includes a collection chamber 20, a processing chamber 30, a waste chamber 40, an output chamber 50, a filter assembly 36. Consisting essentially of or consisting of the above components, including the sample bag 60 and the associated conduit 12 or tube. In the preferred embodiment of the disposable set of the system, the collection chamber 20 and the processing chamber 30 are connected through a conduit 12 housed in a rigid frame. The rotating sealing network (FIGS. 7 and 8) of the processing chamber 30 may also be housed in the same rigid frame. In another preferred embodiment, the various chambers and containers of the disposable set include the necessary interfaces that can communicate with the processing equipment of the system, so that pumps, valves, sensors, and other devices that automatically operate the system include: It can be activated or deactivated as needed without user intervention. The interface also shortens the time required to set up the system, reduces proficiency, indicates proper system configuration, and misleads users by alerting them when incorrect settings occur Reduce.

  Most of the disposable sets of the present invention have many common elements. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that various applications of the system require additional components that become part of the disposable set. Thus, the disposable set may further comprise one or more needles or syringes suitable for acquiring adipose tissue or other tissue from the patient and returning the regenerative cells to the patient. The number and type of needles or syringes included will depend on the type and amount of tissue processed. The disposable set may further include one or more rigid or flexible containers for holding cleaning fluids and other processing reagents used in the system. For example, the disposable set may include a container that holds the saline, enzymes, and any other processing or pretreatment liquid necessary for the process. In addition, a suitable cleaning solution, resuspension, additive, mediator, or implant material may be provided by a disposable set used in conjunction with the systems and methods of the present invention.

  Any combination of system components, devices, or supplies described herein or otherwise necessary to carry out the invention may be provided in the form of a kit. For example, certain kits of the present invention may include a sterile syringe containing a needle having a length and diameter optimal for aspiration of adipose tissue by a syringe and a preferred filter medium that allows processing of small volume tissue, for example. Other exemplary devices and supplies that may be used in accordance with the invention and may be included in kits of the invention are listed in Tables III and IV.

  Table III below identifies examples of supplies that can be used to obtain adipose tissue-derived regenerative cells in accordance with the systems and methods of the present invention.

  Table IV below identifies devices that may be used with the systems and methods disclosed herein.

  The system's reusable components include a collection chamber shaker, various sensors that activate pumps, valves and pump regulators, centrifugal motors, centrifugal motor rotating frames, user interface screens and USB ports, disposable sets, Includes, or consists essentially of, the device or configuration, including an inter-clamping or docking device or configuration for disposable set connection, that securely attaches to reusable hardware components and other related devices and allows the interface to be formed Or consists of a configuration. An exemplary reusable component is shown in FIG. In a preferred embodiment, the reusable component comprises a means for separating and concentrating the regenerative cells from the regenerative cell composition, such as a rotating centrifuge. In this embodiment, the reusable components are designed to connect and interface with a portion of the disposable set processing chamber (including the centrifuge chamber) shown in FIG. 15A. It is understood that the means for separating and concentrating the regenerative cells in the reusable component is not limited to a rotating centrifuge and may include any other configuration described herein, including a rotating membrane filter. . The reusable component is also a processing device described herein for performing several different tissue processing procedures and selectively activating various pumps and valves of the system according to each procedure. A processing apparatus including the designated program may be included. The processor may also include data storage capabilities for storing donor / patient information, processing or collection information, and other data for subsequent download or editing. Reusable ingredients may be used with various disposable sets. The disposable set is connected to the reusable component, for example, via a mutual clamping device or configuration. In doing so, the device or configuration firmly attaches the disposable set to the reusable component and forms an interface, so that the processing equipment present on the reusable component is not only the various components of the disposable set, but also the reusable component. Allows control of available components and various components of other related devices and systems, i.e., allows transmission and reception of signals from those components.

  In one embodiment, the disposable set used in the system is a collection chamber 20 capable of containing about 800 mL of tissue; regeneration produced by about 800 mL of tissue washed and digested in the collection chamber 20 A treatment chamber 30 capable of treating cell compositions; an output chamber 50 capable of containing at least 0.5 mL of regenerative cells; and a waste container capable of containing approximately 10 L of waste liquid. 40 is included. In this embodiment, the hardware device does not exceed 24 ″ long × 18 ″ wide × 36 ″ high. With respect to the various components of the disposable set and hardware, dimensions other than those described above can be constructed as necessary, and are determined to be included in the scope of the present invention without limitation.

  The disposable component of the system is simply installed in place on the device. A specific example of a disposable set that is utilized and assembled with the corresponding reusable components is illustrated in FIG. 15A. The system is preferably designed to be able to detect disposable components that are improperly loaded. For example, each disposable set component may have a color-guided mark for properly aligning and inserting tubes, chambers, etc. to the appropriate part of the system. In yet another embodiment, the system disclosed herein is a portable unit. For example, the portable unit may be capable of moving from one location where adipose tissue was collected to another location for adipose tissue collection. In one embodiment, the portable unit is suitable for collecting and processing adipose tissue at the patient's bedside. Thus, the portable unit may be part of a system that can be moved from patient to patient. Therefore, the portable unit may be equipped with a car that is locked in place. In this case, it is possible to remain in a stable and reliable position at a convenient place throughout the treatment. In other embodiments, the portable unit is designed to be set and operated on a flat surface, such as a desk. The portable unit may also be housed in a housing unit. The portable unit may further include hangers, hooks, labels, scales, and other devices that assist with the procedure. All of the reusable components of the system described herein, such as centrifuges, processing equipment, display screens, etc. may be attached to the portable unit of the system.

  Another embodiment is a manual embodiment for obtaining regenerative cells, which is also within the scope of the present invention. For example, in one embodiment, the processing may be performed using any combination of components, devices, and / or supplies of the systems described herein.

  The manual implementation of the system of the present invention is performed according to the following steps and information. It should be noted that these steps and information are provided for purposes of illustration and not limitation. First, adipose tissue is collected from a patient. The tissue collection line, ie the sampling site coupler, is opened and the spike is inserted into the side port of the 600 ml blood bag. Approximately 10 ml of adipose tissue is collected through a blunt cannula into a 10 ml syringe. This blunt cannula is replaced with a relatively sharp needle (14G). Wipe the sampling area with iodine wipes. Adipose tissue is injected into the 600 ml bag from the sampling site. The syringe and needle are then discarded into the blade piece chamber. Repeat the above steps to introduce sufficient tissue into the bag. Sufficient tissue is judged on a case-by-case basis based on clinical specifics of the patient and application.

  Second, the aspirated adipose tissue is washed. A pre-warmed (37 ° C) saline solution bag is hung on the work surface. A blue hemostatic clamp is placed in the tube between the 600 ml bag and the spike. The clamp is closed to seal the tube. A spike on the 600 ml bag is used to enter the saline bag (this setting uses the needle on the 600 ml bag to enter the saline bag through the rubber septum, iodine prior to needle insertion. Wipe the septum with). Release the blue clamp and allow approximately 150 ml of saline into the 600 ml bag. When the required amount of saline is in the 600 ml bag, close the blue clamp. Invert the 600 ml bag 10-15 times for about 15 seconds. A second blue clamp is applied to the tube leading from the 3L waste bag to the spike. Use the spike on the 3L bag to enter the 600 ml bag. Invert the 600 ml bag over the work surface and let it sit for about 1 minute. Release the blue clamp that leads to the 3L bag. Let the waste liquid flow into the 3L bag. A blue clamp is applied to stop the flow before the tissue enters the tube. Lower the 600 ml bag to the working surface. Repeat the above process two more times. An additional third cycle is indicated when the saline waste liquid is clearly red. Using a heat sealer, seal the tube between the 3L waste bag and the 600 ml bag. This sealing is done at about the midpoint of the tube. Remove and discard the 3L waste bag. Return the 600 ml bag to the work surface.

  Third, the washed adipose tissue is digested. Release the blue clamp in the tube between the saline and the 600 ml bag and allow approximately 150 ml of saline to enter the 600 ml bag. Wipe the sampling area of the 600 ml bag with an iodine wipe. Collagenase is injected into the 600 ml bag through the sampling site. Collagenase is prepared by thawing bottled collagenase in a 37 ° C. water bath or equivalent other than microwave heating. Insert a 1 ml syringe with a 22G needle into the bottle. Aspirate collagenase with a needle. Remove the needle and replace with a 0.2 μm filter and a second 22G needle. The collagenase is then ejected from the syringe through a 0.2 μm filter and needle. Adipose tissue digestion is performed at a final collagenase concentration of 0.1-0.2 Wunsch units / ml. Place the heating pad on the peristaltic device. During this time, the saline bag is placed beside the peristaltic device, still attached. Note that the tube leading to the saline bag should not be entangled with the moving peristaltic. Set the heating pad adjuster to 37 ° C. Place a 600 ml bag on the inflator. Set the actuator to maximum. Observe the bag to confirm that it is stable and rock it for about 1 hour (55 ± 10 minutes).

  Fourth, the regenerative cell composition is recovered. Remove the bag from the perimeter. A blue clamp is applied to the closure tube that previously led to the waste bag. Using a sterilization connection device, attach the quadruple bag set (prepared in advance according to the instructions below) to the tube previously attached to the waste bag. A quadruple pack can be viewed as a quadruple back with two joined. Identify the tube branch that divides into two packs, fold the tube over itself, and slide the metal loop over the folded tube (on both tube pieces). Slide the loop about 0.5 inches. A ridge formed in the bent portion serves to seal the tube. A hemostasis clamp is used to partially crease the closed loop. The loop must not be too tight. This is because the loop needs to be removed during processing. The 600 ml bag is flipped over the work surface and allowed to stand for about 3 minutes. The blue clamp on the tube leading to the quadruple set is released and the cell fraction (the layer below the yellow / orange fat layer) is drained to the quadruple set. Be careful that the fat layer does not enter the tube. During this process, as the fat layer approaches the tube, it is possible to fold the tube with a finger to slow the flow. Next, the tube leading to the quadruple bag set is closed with a blue clamp, the 600 ml bag is returned to the working surface, and the saline solution bag is hung. Release the blue clamp on the tube between the saline bag and the 600 ml bag and allow approximately 150 ml of saline to enter the 600 ml bag. Invert the 600 ml bag about 10-15 times for about 15 seconds. The 600 ml bag is then inverted on the work surface and allowed to sit for about 3-5 minutes. Release the blue clamp on the tube leading to the quadruple set and allow the cell fraction (the layer below the yellow / orange fat layer) to drain into the quadruple set. Be careful that the fat layer does not enter the tube. For example, as the fat layer approaches the tube, the flow can be slowed by folding the tube with a finger. The tube leading to the quadruple bag set is closed with a blue clamp. Heat seal the tube from the quadruple set to the 600ml bag. Next, remove the 600 ml bag and discard.

  In the fifth, the regenerative cell composition is washed. A metal clip is placed on the tube between the two full bags to seal the tube. Place this quadruple set on a balance. Add water to the second “dummy” quad set and balance with the quad set. Place the quadruple set and balance set in the opposite bucket of the centrifuge. In the hollow fibers, the cells are washed and placed in a bag, and the tube between the bag and the aforementioned hollow fiber filter assembly is sealed. Using a peristaltic pump, the fluid is flowed through the filter assembly and the cell concentrate is collected in a bag at the downstream end. Be careful not to squeeze the quadruple set bag upright. The centrifuge is operated at 400 xg for 10 minutes. Remove quadruple set from centrifuge and place in plasma exudator. Care is taken to place the bag against the leach so that the hard tube at the top of the bag is just above the rear plate. If the bag is too high, too much saline will be retained, and if it is too low, the tube will interfere with the ability of the front plate to close, and again too much saline will be retained. Apply a blue clamp to each line from the quadruple set to the empty set. Remove metal loop and blue clamp and allow supernatant to flow into empty quadruple set. Make sure that as much saline as possible is leached out, but be careful not to move the cell pellet. Heat seal the tube containing each supernatant to each bag. Remove the waste bag containing the supernatant. A blue clamp is applied to the tube leading to each of the quadruple set bags containing the cells. The bag is then removed from the plasma exudator. Connect the tube leading to the quadruple bag to the saline solution bag using a sterilization connection device. Remove the blue clamp leading to one of the quadruple set bags and allow about 150 ml of saline to flow through the bag and then reapply the clamp to stop the saline flow. The full quadruple set bag is then inverted about 10-15 times for about 15 seconds. Next, the blue clamp leading to the empty quadruple set is removed and all the contents of the full bag are discharged into the waste bag. Re-apply the metal loop clamp to seal the tube between the two quadruple set bags. Next, the tube is heat-sealed and the saline solution bag is removed. The full quadruple set bag is then inverted about 10-15 times for about 15 seconds. Place another dummy quadruple set on the balance and rebalance against the quadruple set with cells. These quadruple set bags (one full, one empty) are placed in the centrifuge to stand upright so that the quadruple set bag is not squeezed.

  The centrifuge is operated at approximately 400 xg for 10 minutes. The quadruple set is then removed from the centrifuge and carefully placed in the plasma exudator so that the hard tube at the top of the bag is just above the rear plate. If the bag is too high, too much saline will be retained, and if it is too low, the tube will interfere with the ability of the front plate to close, and again too much saline will be retained. Remove the metal loop and drain all supernatant from the full bag into an empty bag, taking care not to dislodge the regenerative cell pellet. Seal the tube between the bags and remove the full (waste) bag and discard. The new sampling site coupler is then inserted into the remaining bag. The cells in the cell pellet are then resuspended in residual saline (if any) to obtain a regenerated cell concentrate. This resuspension can be performed by gently manual manipulation (eg, squeezing or rubbing) the bag.

  A specific example of a system embodying the present invention is shown in FIG. FIG. 4 illustrates an automated system and method for separating and concentrating regenerative cells suitable for reinfusion from a tissue, eg, adipose tissue, into a patient's body. In some embodiments of the system shown in FIG. 4, the system further includes an automated step of aspirating any amount of tissue from the patient. The system shown in FIG. 4 includes the disposable set shown in FIG. 13 connected to the reusable components of the system shown in FIG. 14 to implement an automated implementation of the system shown in FIG. 15A. The disposable set is connected to the reusable component, for example, via a mutual clamping or docking device or configuration. In doing so, the device or configuration securely attaches and couples the disposable set to the reusable component so that the processing equipment on top of the reusable component is reusable as well as the various components of the disposable set. Allows the control of components and other related devices and systems, the formation of interfaces, i.e. the transmission and reception of signals with those components, devices and systems.

  The user may connect the disposable set to the reusable ingredient, enter some parameters using the user interface, e.g. the volume of tissue to be collected, and connect the system to the patient. All of the steps of FIG. 4 are automatically performed continuously and seamlessly using programmed and / or user input parameters. One such order is shown in FIG. 15B. Alternatively, the tissue may be manually aspirated from the patient by the user and transported to the system for processing, eg, separation and concentration of regenerative cells.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, tissue, eg, adipose tissue, is aspirated from the patient through conduit 12 and introduced into collection chamber 20. A detailed view of the collection chamber of FIG. 4 is shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 5, the collection chamber 20 may include a vacuum line 11 that assists in the removal of tissue with a standard cannula. At this point, the user may enter an estimated amount of tissue directed to the collection chamber 20. Tissue is introduced into the collection chamber 20 through the inlet port 21. The inlet port is part of a closed flow path that allows tissue, saline, and other mediators to be aseptically added to the tissue. An optical sensor of the system, such as sensor 29, can detect when a user input volume of tissue is present in the collection chamber 20. In some implementations, if there is less tissue in the collection chamber than user input, the user has the option to begin processing at the volume of tissue present in the collection chamber 20. In some embodiments, a portion of tissue removed from the patient may be directed to the sample chamber 60 by a pump, such as a peristaltic pump, through a conduit activated via user input using a user interface.

  Sensor 29 sends to the processing equipment present in the reusable component to activate the steps necessary to wash and disaggregate the tissue. For example, the processing device may use automated valves and pumps to introduce a specified amount of detergent based on the volume of tissue collected. This cycle in the collection chamber may be repeated until the optical sensor determines that the eluate is sufficiently clear and free of unwanted material. For example, an optical sensor 29 along a conduit derived from the collection chamber 12b or 12d detects that unwanted material has been eliminated and signals the processing device to close the necessary valves and begin the next step. It is also possible.

  The processing device may then introduce a preprogrammed amount of disaggregation agent based on the volume of tissue collected. The processing device may also activate shaking of the tissue in the collection chamber for a specified period of time based on the initial tissue volume collected or based on user input. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, when a disaggregating agent, such as collagenase, is added to the collection chamber 20 through the collagenase source 24, the motor of the collection chamber 20 is activated through the processor. The motor activates the paddle-like device in which one or more paddles 25a are firmly attached to the rotary shaft 25 including the magnetic stirrer and the filter cage 27 of the filter previously fixed to the collecting chamber 28. The paddle is shaken so that the regenerative cells separate from the tissue in the presence of a disaggregating agent.

  The solution in the collection chamber 20 is allowed to settle for a specified period. The floating part of the solution is raised to the top of the solution. After the specified time, the necessary valves and pumps are activated by the processing equipment to eliminate non-floating parts in the waste chamber 40. Transfer to the waste chamber 40 continues until the sensor 29 along the conduit 12b or 12d exiting the collection chamber detects that a suspended portion of the solution has been transferred to the waste chamber 30. For example, a sensor 29 along the conduit 12b or 12d exiting the collection chamber can detect that unwanted material has been eliminated and signal the processing device to close the required valve.

  At this point, the non-suspended fraction of the solution, i.e., the regenerative cell composition, is transferred to the processing chamber 30. This is achieved by a necessary valve and a peristaltic pump. In some embodiments, an additional volume of saline may be added to the floating fraction of the solution remaining in the collection chamber 20 prior to transfer of the regenerative cell composition to the processing chamber 30. Furthermore, a new cleaning cycle may be repeated. After this cycle, the solution is allowed to settle, the non-floating fraction (including regenerative cells) is transferred to the processing chamber 30, and the floating fraction is discharged to the waste chamber 40. This additional wash cycle is used to optimize the transfer of all separated and regenerated cells to the processing chamber 30.

  Once the regenerative cell composition has been transported to the treatment chamber 30 through the conduit 12, it may undergo one or more additional washing steps prior to the beginning of the concentrated phase. This ensures that waste and residual contaminants from the collection chamber 20 are eliminated. Similarly, after the concentration step, the regenerative cell composition may be subjected to one or more additional washing steps to eliminate residual contaminants. Unwanted material may be moved from the chamber 30 to the waste chamber 40 in the same manner as described above, i.e., by adjusting valves and pumps based on signals from the processing equipment.

  Various embodiments of the processing chamber 30 shown in FIG. 4 are described in detail below. The processing chamber 30 shown in FIG. 4 takes the form of a centrifugal chamber. Detailed views of the processing chamber of FIG. 4 are shown in FIGS. The processing chamber 30 is generally present in the outer housing 30.2, one or more seals 30.3, one or more bearings 30.4, and the processing chamber in the reusable components of the system. Attachment point 30.6 for connection to the centrifuge; rotating seal network 30.1 including one or more flow paths 30.5 which take the form of a conduit extending outward from the rotating seal and ending at the centrifugal chamber at each end including. The centrifuge chamber takes the form of an output chamber 50 housed in a frame 53, which includes one or more ports 52 and one or more handles for manually repositioning the output chamber 50.

  A rotating seal network 30.1 is included to ensure that the flow path of the processing chamber is maintained in a sterile condition. In addition, the flow path of the processing chamber can be aseptically approached at any time, for example, while the centrifugal chamber of the processing chamber is rotating (e.g., to add a reagent or wash solution).

  7 and 8 includes a rotating shaft including two or more bearings 30.4, three or more lip seals 30.3, and an outer housing 30.2. In this embodiment, the bearing 30.4 further includes an outer shaft and an inner shaft (not shown), referred to herein as a race. These races may be separated by precision abrasive balls. The races and spheres containing the bearings are preferably made of a material suitable for contact with body fluids or coated with a material suitable for contact with body fluids. In certain preferred embodiments, the races and spheres are manufactured using, for example, silicon nitride or zirconia. Further, in this embodiment, the three lip seals include a circular spring (not shown) in addition to a circular “U” shaped channel (not shown). The circular “U” shaped channel is preferably made of a flexible material so that a leak-proof joint is formed to the axis of rotation of the rotating seal network 30.1. Furthermore, the lip seal is preferably placed in a direction in which the pressure from the regenerative cell composition flowing through the treatment chamber causes the seal assembly to tighten the joint with the rotating shaft through increased tension. The seal can be expanded and / or collapsed as needed to fit into a groove in the outer housing 30.2 of the rotating seal network 30.1 (see FIG. (Not shown). The heat generated by or generated in the vicinity of the rotating seal network 30.1 is adjusted to prevent degradation of the cells in the solution moving through the passage. This may be achieved, for example, by selection of a hard material that builds the rotating shaft, polishing of the rotating shaft area in contact with the seal, and minimizing contact between the rotating shaft and the seal.

  In another embodiment, the rotating seal network 30.1 includes a single rubber seal 30.3 and an air gasket (not shown). The seal and gasket provide a bent passage for any biological material that can threaten the sterility of the system. In another embodiment, the rotating seal network 30.1 includes a plurality of spring-loaded seals 30.3 that isolate individual flow paths. The seal 30.3 is manufactured from a material that can be sterilized and at the same time seal the rotating shaft without a lubricant. In another embodiment, the rotating seal network 30.1 includes a pair of ceramic disks (not shown) that form different flow paths, can withstand rotation of the system, and do not cause cell degradation. In another embodiment, the flow path is flexible and is wound and unwound with respect to the processing chamber. This is achieved by rotating the flexible channel once for each two rotations of the processing chamber 30. This eliminates the need for a rotating seal.

  The regenerative cell composition is pumped out of the collection chamber 20 and flows along a flow path through the rotational axis of the rotating seal network 30.1 and splits into a minimum of two flow paths 30.5. Each of these channels extends radially outward from the central axis of the processing chamber 30 and terminates in the vicinity of the outer end of the processing chamber 30, that is, in the centrifugal chamber that houses the output chamber 50 (FIGS. 7 and 8). ). Thus, in a preferred embodiment, the processing chamber 30 includes two or more output chambers 50, as shown in FIGS. These output chambers 50 are arranged 30.7 so as to face in one direction during the processing, and 30.8 so as to face in another direction when the concentrated regenerative cells are collected. For example, the output chamber is tilted at one angle during processing and at another angle during cell recovery. The cell recovery angle is closer to vertical than the treatment angle. These two positions of the output chamber 50 are manually operated via a handle 53 protruding from the processing chamber 30. Regenerated cells are manually collected using a syringe when the output chamber 50 is in the collection direction 30.8. In another embodiment, the flow path 30.5 branches off of the processing chamber and then connects to the outer end of the processing chamber 30, i.e., in a centrifugal chamber that houses the output chamber 50 (not shown). Built to connect. In this embodiment, large amounts of regenerative cell compositions and / or additives, solutions, etc. may be transported directly to the centrifuge chamber and / or the output chamber.

  With reference to FIGS. 4 and 7-9, a pump 34 and one or more valves 14 are provided between the collection chamber 20 and the processing chamber 30. In one preferred embodiment, valve 14 is an electromechanical valve. In addition, a sensor, for example a pressure sensor 29, is provided in series with the processing chamber 30 and the collection chamber 20. These valves, pumps, and sensors act in concert with the processing equipment on the reusable component (FIG. 14) to automate the concentration process of the system.

  The sensor detects the presence of the regenerative cell composition in the centrifuge chamber and activates the centrifuge device through communication with the system processing device. The regenerative cell composition is then subjected to a preprogrammed load for a preprogrammed time based on the amount of tissue initially collected and / or user input. In some embodiments, this process is repeated automatically or via user input. For example, the composition is subjected to a load of about 400 times gravity for about 5 minutes. The output chamber 50 is constructed so that the outermost part of the chamber forms a small pool for dense particles and cells. The output chamber 50 holds dense particles in the form of so-called “cell pellets”, while the lighter supernatant is removed through a flow path, eg, a flow path along the rotational axis of the rotating seal network 30.1. Like that. Thus, the supernatant moves from the central low point of the processing chamber 30 to the waste container 40 through the rotating seal network 30.1. Valve 14 and pump 34 signal the processing device to activate the process of removing the supernatant to waste container 40 without disturbing the cell pellet present in output chamber 50.

  The cell pellet obtained using the system shown in FIG. 4 contains the enriched regenerated cells of the present invention. In certain embodiments, after the supernatant is drained and directed to the waste chamber 40, the channel 30.5 is used to divert the cell pellet formed after centrifugation with additional solutions and / or other additives. Resuspend. Resuspending the cell pellet in this manner allows the regenerated cells to be further washed, starting with removal of unwanted proteins and chemical compounds and increasing the flow of oxygen to the cells. The resulting resuspension is subjected to a load of 400 times gravity for an additional 5 minutes. After the second cell pellet is formed and the resulting supernatant is drained to the waste chamber 40, a final wash may be performed with saline or some other suitable buffer solution in the manner described above. . Such repeated washing can be performed multiple times to emphasize the purity of the regenerated cell fluid. In some embodiments, the saline can be added at any required step to enhance processing. The concentration of regenerative cells obtained using the system shown in FIG. 4 may vary depending on the amount of collected tissue, patient age, patient medical history, and the like. Table 1 lists exemplary yields.

  Next, after the output chamber 50 is placed in an appropriate direction for cell removal, the final pellet in the output chamber 50 may be aseptically collected using an appropriate syringe. In another embodiment, the final pellet is automatically transferred to a container in the output chamber 50, which is removed, stored and used as needed. The container may be any suitable shape or size. For example, the container may be a syringe. In certain embodiments, the output container 50 itself is heated in a sealed manner (automatically or manually) and in subsequent collection and therapeutic applications described herein, eg, reinfusion for a patient. In preparation for the use of regenerative cells, it is isolated from the other components of the processing chamber. The cells may also be further processed as described herein prior to collection from the output chamber or after transfer to a second system or device. The reusable components shown in FIG. 14 are constructed to be connectable to one or more additional systems or devices for further processing as needed.

  As described herein, adipose tissue-derived regenerative cells include several cell types that can be used to obtain therapeutic, structural, or cosmetic effects in the general context of regenerative medicine. There are robust implementation issues with respect to the clinical use of cells obtained from solid organs, which was not a problem with the prior art. Isolating live cells from adipose tissue requires cell dissociation by proteolytic enzymes, particularly enzymes that target extracellular matrix molecules in the tissue (ie, collagenases). Therefore, these cells must be clinically safe before being used as therapeutic agents for human or livestock cells.

  Specifically, according to one aspect of the present invention, there is minimal potential for an adverse event prior to administering adipose tissue-derived cells to a recipient with the intent of obtaining a therapeutic, structural, or cosmetic effect. It is said. In short, to maximize the ultimate benefit to the recipient, the potential for harm is minimized. The problems that arise in connection with maximizing both safety and benefit are the site where the final cell product is introduced, the route where the product is introduced, and factors specific to the recipient (eg, age, complication Depending on the disease and concomitant drugs). According to one characteristic of the present invention, the cell suspension and / or supernatant obtained after (for example, after the final wash of ADC collected after tissue digestion, after digestion washing, after washing with saline) Quantified with respect to one or more clinically relevant parameters described in the specification.

  However, some constants must be dealt with regardless of the aforementioned variables. One such constant is the absence of infectious, toxic, or pyrogenic substances or mediators. In order to minimize the possibility that such dangerous components are present in the regenerative cells, all abiotic and biological material that contacts the cells and the adipose tissue from which the cells are extracted must be in use. Must be sterile or antiseptic. For example, such biological and abiotic materials are endotoxins, which are products of Gram-negative bacteria that are not uncommon in materials of animal and human origin, but in negligible amounts of such endotoxins However, it should not be included at all. In one particular embodiment, all abiotic material that contacts adipose tissue during and after the digestion process is pre-tested and / or sold by the device according to the prescription of USP; NF19 ≦ 20.0 per USP, defined as containing endotoxin units (EU), and / or (eg, after final wash of ADC recovered after tissue digestion, Cell suspensions and / or supernatants obtained after post-digestion washing and after washing with saline are quantified with respect to one or more clinically relevant parameters described herein (eg, sample supernatants). Can be quantified for endotoxin levels ≦ 0.5 EU / ml, which are declared acceptable for clinical use by FDA's equipment and the Radiation Health Center (CDRH)). In humans, endotoxin exposure results in sepsis and subsequent multiple organ failure. In addition to endotoxin, cells disaggregated from adipose tissue by proteolytic enzymes must be evaluated for the presence of residual proteolytic activity in the final cell population. This is because such activity can cause unwanted and unpleasant tissue destruction in humans or animals.

  However, there are several embodiments of the present invention where the effects can be emphasized when the active cell population is introduced with the extracellular matrix components that were present in the original adipose tissue. One such embodiment is found in the setting of a cell proliferative fat transfer process that is performed to achieve a cosmetic or structural effect. In this setting, the connective tissue matrix becomes a supporting structure for regenerating cells to proliferate and over time, with effect. For example, in one or more enzymes, the enzymes may be at least part of the adipose tissue for the amount of time that would have been required if those enzymes were left intact to completely disaggregate the tissue. Partial disaggregation may be performed by early removal from Such a process requires less processing time and may produce a product that is unsuitable for intravascular delivery, although it may be more completely removed for certain applications using local, non-vascular transport. May be better than agglomerated products. An example of such an application is soft tissue filling in cosmetic or structural applications.

  On the other hand, the presence of residual extracellular matrix material often causes significant problems rather than benefits. For example, collagen is a classic stimulator of platelet aggregation. Inducing this process in the blood vessel by transporting collagen or large fragments of collagen into the blood vessel results in thrombosis and / or thromboembolization events, which can cause local ischemia. This is confirmed by a stroke in the case of the brain and a heart attack in the heart. Thus, in the case of intravascular transport, in situations where substances are accidentally transported into the intravascular space, or even in the absence of the presence of a collagen matrix, it affects the platelet aggregation of such cell preparations. The effect must be evaluated. For example, contaminants to be aware of are collagen fragments that remain after tissue digestion in addition to soluble agents in the cell suspension. According to one embodiment, the presence of a detectable level is undesirable, whatever it is clinically relevant.

  Similarly, residual adipocytes and free lipids in adipose tissue-derived regenerative cell preparations must be minimized in the case of intravascular or systemic transport (whether intentional or accidental). I must. This is because systemic administration of adipocytes or lipids results in fat embolism and may result not only in end organ ischemic injury, but also pulmonary ventilation / perfusion incompatibility.

  Of course, the exact nature of regenerative cells suitable for clinical or veterinary use depends on several factors. However, generally speaking, transported cells fall into one of two categories. That is, one is intravascular transport and the second is non-systemic transplantation. Both embodiments are included in the present invention.

  In one embodiment, the systems and methods of the invention described herein are sterile or preservative abiotic for use in closed or functionally closed fluid / tissue passages. And biological components, wherein exposure to tissue, cell, biological, and non-biological material contaminants, disaggregation agents is prevented or minimized, and negligible levels in the passageway Further included are abiotic and biological materials including endotoxins, and methods suitable for removing adipocytes and free lipids from the regenerative cells and thereby allowing the regenerative cells to reperfuse to the patient. Removal of adipocytes and free lipids from regenerative cells is performed by any method selected from among the methods for isolating and concentrating regenerative cells described herein.

  Although the foregoing systems and methods have been described herein with some specificity, the present disclosure is presented for purposes of illustration only, and the structure of the systems and methods described in detail. It should be understood that changes to the order are possible to those skilled in the art and are intended to be included in the present invention.

  Several publications and patent literature have been cited above. Each of these cited publications and patent documents is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

  The following examples are provided to illustrate the specific circumstances and background to which the techniques of the present invention are applied, and are intended to limit the scope of the claims encompassed by the present invention and this disclosure. Not intended.

(Example)
Example 1. Isolation of clinically safe regenerative cells from human adipose tissue

Materials and methods Preparation of regenerative cells Human regenerative cells were collected and harvested by enzymatic digestion of adipose tissue as described below.
Human adipose tissue was taken into a syringe using a blunt cannula with vacuum assisted or non-assisted lipid aspiration in an outpatient plastic surgery clinic. The blunt cannula was replaced with a sharp needle (14 gauge) after lipid aspiration. A spiked (currently using a needle), 600 ml single blood pack unit that opens a bag, referred to herein as a “tissue bag”, a sampling site coupler, and a spike on the side port of the bag Disinfect the sampling site by wiping with iodine and get ready. The adipose tissue is then injected into the bag through the sampling site and then wiped with an iodine swab. This process was repeated until all the desired tissue was collected. The bag (s) were then transported to the MacroPore Cell Laboratory. In the laboratory, the bag was a saline solution for injection and was placed in series downstream of the bag pre-warmed to 37 ° C. A tube was then secured in series between the tissue bag spike and the saline bag and a hemostatic clamp was placed over the tube and the clamp was closed. The spike was then used through the rubber septum to enter the saline solution bag through the tissue bag needle. The rubber septum is wiped with iodine in advance before inserting the needle. Next, the clamp is released and approximately 150 ml of saline is allowed to enter the tissue bag. Thereafter, the clamp was closed again. The bag was then inverted 10-15 times within about 15 seconds. The tube was then placed in series with a 3L waste bag and the spike was left attached to the tissue bag. A second clamp was provided on the tube. The waste bag spike was then used to enter the 600 ml bag, the tissue bag was inverted and suspended above the work surface, and the tissue was allowed to settle for about 1 minute by keeping the bag resting. The clamp was then released, fluid was allowed to flow from the tissue bag to the waste bag, and the tube was closed with a clamp just prior to the tissue entering the tube. The tissue bag was then lowered from the work surface. The entire washing process was repeated, depending on how many cycles were required to remove the majority of red blood cells, with visual detection by the red coloration of the tissue. A heated sealer was used to seal the tube between the waste bag and the tissue bag at approximately the middle point of the tube. The waste bag was then removed and discarded, and the sampling site was disinfected by iodine wiping. Next, the clamp between the fresh saline solution bag and the tissue bag was opened, and about 150 ml of saline solution was allowed to enter the tissue bag.

  Next, an enzyme mixture, Blendzyme 3® (Roche Diagnostics), was prepared for several minutes to produce the following concentrations of enzyme. Collagenase I and II (0.5 Wunsch units / ml) and thermolysin (241 caseinase units / ml). This is accomplished by removing 1 ml of Blendzyme from a commercially available vial via a 22 gauge needle attached to a syringe and dropping it into a container previously filled with 300 ml of saline for injection. This needle is replaced with a 0.2 μm filter and a second 22G needle. The working fluid was then incubated at 4 ° C. The enzyme working fluid was then added to the tissue bag through the sampling site and incubated in a 37 ° C. water bath with rocking for about 1 hour (55 ± 10 minutes). The bag was suspended over the work surface and allowed to stand for about 3 minutes. A clamp previously used to close the tube leading to the waste bag was attached to the tube. The 600 ml bag was inverted on the work surface and allowed to stand for -3 minutes.

analysis
Safety analysis The isolated cells were then assessed for their clinical safety by measuring endotoxin levels, soluble factors that induce platelet aggregation, residual proteolytic enzyme activity in human serum, and adipocyte frequency. .

  Endotoxin levels in the saline wash and the final ADC suspension were measured by the company's Procall # LOP-426 at Infinity Laboratories (Littleton, CO). Briefly, the assay was performed in a 96 well plate. Test samples or standards (0.1 ml) were added to the wells. The plate was incubated for 10 minutes at 37 ± 1 ° C. in a heating block. Cell lysate (0.1 ml) was added to each well to initiate the reaction. The amount of endotoxin per test was calculated from a standard curve. A positive product control was performed to show that the test sample did not interfere with the degradation reaction. 0.50 EU / ml was added to the test sample. In order to indicate a lack of suppression or enhancement, the source results should be in the range of -50% to + 200% (0.25 1.0 EU / ml).

  Proteolytic activity obtained from the Blendzyme® solution used to digest the tissue was measured by gelatinase and caseinase assays by fluorescence measurement, detecting collagenase I and II and thermolysin activity, respectively.

  Collagenase activity was measured using a commercially available kit (EnzChek Gelatinase / Collagenase Assay Kit (Cat. No. E-12055, Molecular Probes; Invitrogen Detection Systems, Eugene, Oreg.) Briefly, gelatin was added to 96 wells. In the wells of the plate, the final, digested, sample supernatant obtained after washing with ADC, or combined with a known concentration of Blendzyme® (to obtain a standard curve) diluted serially. Samples were incubated in the dark for 24 hours, and then average fluorescence was measured using a Gemini XS microplate reader (excitation at 495 nm and emission at 515 nm) Collagenase activity in samples obtained from ADC wash Was calculated from a Blendzyme® standard curve based on known collagenase concentrations.

  Thermolysin activity was measured using a commercially available kit (EnzChek gelatinase / collagenase assay kit (Catalog No. E-6638, Molecular Probes; Invitrogen Detection Systems, Eugene, Oreg.). In the wells of the plate, the final, digested, sample supernatant obtained after ADC saline washing or combined with a known concentration of Blendzyme® (to obtain a standard curve) serially diluted. The assay samples were incubated for 1 hour in the dark and then the average fluorescence was measured using a Gemini XS microplate reader (495 nm excitation and 515 nm emission) Thermolysin in the sample obtained from the ADC wash Activity was calculated based on known thermolysin concentrations from a Blendzyme® standard curve.

Platelet aggregation by the final ADC preparation was quantified using a clinically standard platelet aggregation reaction protocol in Scripps Clinic Medical Laboratories (La Jolla, Calif.). Briefly, platelet rich plasma (prp) and platelet deficient plasma (ppp) were obtained by blood collection of patients who did not take aspirin or ibuprofen for 2 weeks. Each patient's PRP sample was adjusted to achieve a final platelet count between 250K and 350K / mm ³ by adding PPP. Next, the prepared PRP sample is combined with the final, digested supernatant obtained after ADC saline washing, or with a known platelet aggregation agent, collagen in a cuvette, ADP, or ristocetin. , Read between 5 and 10 minutes with an aggregometer set at 37 ° C. Aggregation induced by soluble factors in the supernatants of ADC samples was quantified based on comparison to aggregation curves induced by known agents.

  The adipocytes were measured at the final output of adipose tissue-derived cells after removing floating cells and then centrifuging and resuspending to further concentrate the cells. 10 μl of cell suspension was pipetted onto a pre-labeled glass slide. Using another glass slide, the previous 10 μl cell suspension was applied to the glass surface, spread thinly and air dried. The air-dried slide was fixed in 50% acetone / 0.015 M sodium citrate solution for 30 minutes, washed with tap water for 10 seconds, and air-dried again. The slides were then stained with hematoxylin eosin using standard staining procols. After staining, the slides were analyzed with a bright field microscope. Adipocytes were recognized as 50-100 μm size cells with blue nuclei on the sides of the cells, and other nucleated cells were recognized as 5-15 μm size cells with a blue nucleus in the center of the cells. . The percent contamination of adipocytes was determined based on an average of 5 random fields obtained by 6 separate canister treatments.

Characterization of ADC surface markers Isolated cells were characterized by cell surface markers as follows. Flow cytometric analysis was performed using a Becton-Dickinson FACSAria instrument equipped with a 488 nm solid phase laser and a 633 nm air cooled laser. Data was acquired and analyzed using FACSDiVa software, and uncultured ADC was analyzed using CD31, CD34, CD45, CD151, CD9, CD184, ABCG2, CD133, CD146, CD105, CD36, CD13, CD29, CD71, CD106, CD104, Staining was performed with monoclonal antibodies against CD117, CD49d, CD44, CD151, and CD90, and the fluorescence intensity was analyzed as a function of cell protoplasm granularity (side scatter). Non-specific antibody was used as a negative control. The frequency of individual populations was expressed as the percentage of positive events appearing in the nucleated cell region (R1) (defined as the forward scatter plot versus the side scatter plot).

Results The cell suspension or the final, post-digestion, sample supernatant obtained after washing the saline collected after tissue digestion was quantified for the clinically relevant parameters described above. The sample supernatant contained 0.02% endotoxin, which is an endotoxin level ≦ 0.5 EU / s that is declared acceptable for clinical use by FDA's equipment and the Radiation Health Center (CDRH). substantially lower than ml.

Collagenase and thermolysin activity obtained from the Blendzyme® solution used to digest adipose tissue was measured in the supernatant of the final cell preparation. This activity was quantified in human serum. This is because serum is the major component that ADC treatment is expected to contact in patients. Furthermore, since human sera contain inhibitors of tissue specific proteases, their activity in humans is a relevant assessment. Residual collagenase activity in the sample supernatant was suppressed 99.9% by serum. Similarly, residual thermolysin activity was also suppressed by serum by 99.9%. The sample supernatant collagenase activity in human serum is 1.5 × 10 ⁻² units / ml, considering that the minimum dilution when introduced into humans is 4-5 orders of magnitude It is considered to be 1.5 × 10 ⁻⁶ , ⁻⁷ units / ml. As a comparison, we measured endogenous collagenase activity in human serum to be 2.2 × 10 ⁻⁶ units / ml. Similarly, the thermolysin activity of the sample supernatant in serum is 1.7 units / ml, which is also considered to be 1. 5 units of minimum dilution when introduced into humans. It is considered to be 5 × 10 ⁻⁴ , ⁻⁵ units / ml. For comparison, we measured endogenous thermolysin activity in human serum and found it to be 2.7 × 10 ⁻⁴ units / ml.

  In all ADC cell suspensions, the adipocyte content ranged from 0.01% to 0.04% (average 0.02 ± 0.01%, n = 6). Finally, in collagen supernatant, compared to 83.7% ± 9.6, 74% ± 8.2, 83.3 ± 8.1% for collagen, ADP and restacetin, respectively The percentage of platelets that aggregate in response to various soluble factors ranged from 0% to 1.67% (n = 3).

Summary The above results indicate that the regenerative cells obtained by manual implementation of the systems and methods of the present invention are clinically safe. Thus, automated embodiments with pre-sterilized components and closed or functionally closed sterile / flow tissue passages are said to be safer than regenerative cells produced by manual embodiments. If not, it is thought to produce equally safe regenerative cells.

Equivalents Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific embodiments of the invention described herein. Will be able to. Such equivalents are intended to be encompassed in the scope of the following claims.

1 shows a system for separating and concentrating regenerative cells from tissue, including a single filter assembly. 2 shows a system similar to FIG. 1 having a plurality of filter assemblies in series. 2 is a diagram similar to FIG. 1 having a plurality of filter assemblies in parallel form. 1 shows a system for separating and concentrating regenerative cells from tissue, including a centrifugal chamber. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a collection chamber that includes a pre-fixed filter utilized in a system for separating and concentrating regenerative cells from tissue. FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a processing chamber of a system that separates and concentrates regenerative cells from tissue using an osmotic filtration system. FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a processing chamber of a system for separating and concentrating regenerative cells that utilizes a centrifuge to concentrate regenerative cells. FIG. FIG. 8 is another cross-sectional view of the processing chamber of FIG. 7. Figures (A)-(C) illustrate the elutriation components used in the system of the present invention. 1 is a diagram illustrating a system for separating and concentrating regenerative cells from tissue by utilizing vacuum pressure to move fluid in the system. A vacuum system is built by providing a vacuum pump or vacuum source at the outlet of the system, which uses a stopcock system, vents, and clamps to adjust the direction and timing of the flow. Adjusted to draw and circulate tissue and fluid at a specified rate. 1 illustrates a system for separating and concentrating regenerative cells from tissue by utilizing positive pressure to move fluid in the system. A positive pressure system uses valves, stopcocks, vents, and clamps to adjust the direction and timing of the flow, and the machine to drive or drive tissue and fluid through the system at a specified speed. For example, a peristaltic pump is used. Fig. 4 shows a filtration process in which a fluid input stream flows tangentially to the pores of the filter. Fig. 4 shows a filtration process in which a fluid input stream flows in a direction perpendicular to the pores of the filter. 2 is an illustration of an exemplary disposable set for the system of the present invention. 1 is a diagram illustrating exemplary reusable components for the system of the present invention. Figure 15 shows an exemplary device of the present invention assembled using the disposable set of Figure 13 and the reusable component of Figure 14; FIG. 6 is a flow chart illustrating exemplary designated program steps executed through a software program that control an automated implementation of the system of the present invention. Two types of selection processing parameters are presented to show the universality of the system.

Claims (16)

A method of processing adipose tissue to produce a clinically safe enriched cell population comprising adipose-derived regenerative cells:
Introducing the adipose tissue removed from the subject into a built-in automatic fat-derived regenerative cell processing unit, wherein the built-in automatic fat-derived regenerative cell processing unit comprises:
A tissue collection chamber configured to receive aspirated adipose tissue from the subject, the tissue collection chamber being a closed system;
A first filter disposed within the tissue collection chamber, wherein the first filter retains a cell population comprising adipose-derived regenerative cells and allows free lipids and blood to pass through;
A processing chamber configured to receive the cell population comprising adipose-derived regenerative cells from the tissue collection chamber, wherein the processing chamber is in the closed system;
A conduit configured to allow movement of the cell population comprising adipose-derived regenerative cells from the tissue collection chamber to the processing chamber while maintaining the closed system;
A cell concentrator disposed within the processing chamber, wherein the cell concentrator is configured to promote the enrichment of the cell population containing adipose-derived regenerative cells, and the enriched cell population containing the fat-derived regenerative cells Obtaining a final cell suspension containing;
An optical sensor capable of detecting a change in the light refraction of the effluent in the conduit while maintaining the closed system;
An in-line auto-sampling probe configured to test a sample of the final cell suspension containing an enriched cell population comprising adipose-derived regenerative cells for contaminants; and chamber assembly and enrichment A programmable processing device capable of communicating with and controlling these devices,
Processing the tissue to obtain a final cell suspension comprising a clinically safe enriched cell population comprising adipose-derived regenerative cells;
The method comprising performing at least one test for contaminants on the sample to obtain a clinically safe enriched cell population comprising adipose-derived regenerative cells.   The method of claim 1, wherein the optical sensor is capable of detecting the presence of red blood cells in a tissue solution.   The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein the contaminant is selected from the group consisting of endotoxins, residual enzymes and free lipids. The test is
Receiving input identifying whether the drug is administered intravascularly, non-locally, or both;
4. The method of claim 1, comprising selecting at least one test for a contaminant selected from the group consisting of adipocytes, free lipids, proteolytic substances, platelet aggregates, and endotoxins based on the input. The method according to claim 1.   5. The test of any of claims 1-4, wherein the test comprises testing for at least one clinically safe level of endotoxin, residual enzyme that may be introduced upon concentration, free lipids and agonists of platelet aggregation. The method according to claim 1.   The method according to claim 1, wherein the selection step is automatically performed by the built-in automatic fat-derived regenerative cell processing unit.   The method according to claim 1, wherein the selection step is not automatically performed by the built-in automatic fat-derived regenerative cell processing unit. The method further comprises:
Receiving input identifying a tissue type desired to be formed from the enriched cell population comprising adipose-derived regenerative cells;
Selecting at least one test for at least one contaminant selected from the group consisting of adipocytes, free lipids, proteolytic agents, platelet aggregates and endotoxins based on the input. 8. The method according to any one of items 7.   The method according to claim 8, wherein the selecting step is automatically performed by the built-in automatic fat-derived regenerative cell processing unit.   9. The method of claim 8, wherein the selecting step is not automatically performed by the built-in automatic fat-derived regenerative cell processing unit.   The method of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the cell collection device comprises a centrifuge.   The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the cell collection device comprises a spinning membrane filter.   The method according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the treatment step comprises enzymatic disaggregation of the adipose tissue. A self-contained automatic adipose-derived regenerative cell processing unit for recovering a final cell suspension containing a concentrated cell population containing adipose-derived regenerative cells from adipose tissue:
A tissue collection chamber configured to receive aspirated adipose tissue from a subject, the tissue collection chamber being a closed system;
A first filter disposed within the tissue collection chamber, wherein the first filter retains a cell population comprising adipose-derived regenerative cells and allows free lipids and blood to pass through;
A processing chamber configured to receive the cell population comprising adipose-derived regenerative cells from the tissue collection chamber, wherein the processing chamber is in the closed system;
A conduit configured to allow movement of the cell population comprising adipose-derived regenerative cells from the tissue collection chamber to the processing chamber while maintaining a closed system;
A cell concentrator disposed within the processing chamber, wherein the cell concentrator is configured to promote the enrichment of the cell population containing adipose-derived regenerative cells, and the enriched cell population containing the fat-derived regenerative cells Obtaining a final cell suspension containing;
An optical sensor capable of detecting a change in light refraction of effluent in a conduit removed from the collection chamber while maintaining the closed system;
An in-line auto-sampling probe that tests a sample of the final cell suspension containing a concentrated cell population containing adipose-derived regenerative cells while maintaining the closed system for contaminants And a unit that includes a programmable processor capable of communicating with and controlling the chamber assembly and concentrator.   15. The built-in automated cell-derived regenerative cell processing unit is configured to receive input identifying whether the drug is administered intravascularly, non-locally, or both. Cell processing unit.   The built-in automatic fat-derived regenerative cell processing unit is configured to receive an input identifying a tissue type that is desired to be formed from the enriched cell population containing fat-derived regenerative cells. 15. The cell processing unit according to 15.

Images