JP7156137B2 - Cell culture device and its usage - Google Patents

Cell culture device and its usage Download PDF

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JP7156137B2
JP7156137B2 JP2019065127A JP2019065127A JP7156137B2 JP 7156137 B2 JP7156137 B2 JP 7156137B2 JP 2019065127 A JP2019065127 A JP 2019065127A JP 2019065127 A JP2019065127 A JP 2019065127A JP 7156137 B2 JP7156137 B2 JP 7156137B2
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holder
axial direction
membrane
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JP2020162458A (en
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康彦 篠田
誠太郎 ▲高▼城
真輝 山▲崎▼
慎治 大口
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Toyoda Gosei Co Ltd
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Description

本発明は、細胞を培養するために用いられる細胞培養器具及びその使用方法に関する。 TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to a cell culture instrument used for culturing cells and a method of using the same.

従来、培養膜の両面に細胞を培養するための細胞培養器具が知られている(例えば、特許文献1)。特許文献1記載の細胞培養器具は、培養膜と、外筒と、内筒と、を備えている。外筒は、軸方向に筒状に延びる本体筒部を有している。外筒の本体筒部には、軸方向に延びるスリットが設けられている。外筒は、スリットの存在により径方向に弾性変形可能である。外筒は、本体筒部の軸方向中間部に設けられた、培養膜を保持する保持部を有している。 Conventionally, a cell culture device for culturing cells on both sides of a culture membrane is known (for example, Patent Document 1). A cell culture device described in Patent Document 1 includes a culture membrane, an outer cylinder, and an inner cylinder. The outer cylinder has a tubular body portion extending in the axial direction. A slit extending in the axial direction is provided in the body tube portion of the outer tube. The outer cylinder is elastically deformable in the radial direction due to the existence of the slit. The outer cylinder has a holding portion that holds the culture membrane, which is provided in the axially intermediate portion of the main tubular portion.

内筒は、二つ設けられており、それぞれ軸方向に筒状に延びている。第一の内筒は、外筒の保持部に対向する対向部を有している。第一の内筒は、外筒の軸方向一方側から外筒内に挿入されて隣接配置される。また、第二の内筒は、外筒の軸方向他方側から外筒内に挿入されて隣接配置される。各内筒が外筒内に挿入されて装着された状態では、外筒が径方向外側へ弾性変形することで各内筒と外筒とが互いに径方向で隙間無く接し、第一の内筒の対向部と外筒の保持部とが軸方向で対向することで培養膜が挟持されて保持される。 Two inner cylinders are provided, each extending in the axial direction in a cylindrical shape. The first inner cylinder has a facing portion that faces the holding portion of the outer cylinder. The first inner cylinder is inserted into the outer cylinder from one side in the axial direction of the outer cylinder and arranged adjacent thereto. The second inner cylinder is inserted into the outer cylinder from the other axial side of the outer cylinder and arranged adjacent to the outer cylinder. When each inner cylinder is inserted into the outer cylinder and attached, the outer cylinder is elastically deformed radially outward, so that each inner cylinder and the outer cylinder are in contact with each other in the radial direction without a gap, thereby forming the first inner cylinder. The opposing portion of the outer tube and the holding portion of the outer cylinder face each other in the axial direction, so that the culture membrane is sandwiched and held.

特開2017-29092号公報JP 2017-29092 A

ところで、上記の細胞培養器具では、二つの内筒がそれぞれ、外筒に装着された際にその軸方向先端が外筒の軸方向端面よりも軸方向外側に突出しないように形成されている。そして、外筒は、それら二つの内筒を同時に装着できるようにその軸方向全長が比較的長い状態に形成されており、細胞培養器具における外筒の軸方向下端から培養膜までの寸法距離が長い。このため、培養膜に細胞を培養するためには、ウェル(培養容器)の容量を大きくすることが必要であり、多量の培養液を準備することが必要である。 By the way, in the above-described cell culture device, each of the two inner cylinders is formed so that its axial tip does not protrude axially outward beyond the axial end surface of the outer cylinder when attached to the outer cylinder. The outer cylinder is formed to have a relatively long overall length in the axial direction so that the two inner cylinders can be attached at the same time. long. Therefore, in order to culture cells on the culture membrane, it is necessary to increase the capacity of the well (culture vessel) and prepare a large amount of culture solution.

本発明は、このような点に鑑みてなされたものであり、少量の培養液で培養膜に細胞を培養することが可能な細胞培養器具及びその使用方法を提供することを目的とする。 SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide a cell culture device capable of culturing cells on a culture membrane with a small amount of culture medium and a method of using the same.

本発明の一態様である細胞培養器具は、軸方向に筒状に延びる本体筒部と、前記本体筒部の軸方向中間部に設けられ、培養膜を保持する保持部と、を有する保持具と、前記保持具に対して着脱可能に軸方向一方側に装着され、軸方向に筒状に延び、前記保持具への装着時に前記保持具の軸方向一方端よりも軸方向一方側に突出する第一筒部材と、前記保持具に対して着脱可能に軸方向他方側に装着され、軸方向に筒状に延び、前記保持具への装着時に前記保持具の軸方向他方端よりも軸方向他方側に突出する第二筒部材と、を備える、細胞培養器具である。 A cell culture device, which is one aspect of the present invention, is a holder having a tubular main body portion extending in an axial direction in a tubular shape, and a holding portion provided in an axially intermediate portion of the main tubular portion and holding a culture membrane. is detachably mounted on one side in the axial direction of the holder, extends cylindrically in the axial direction, and protrudes to the one side in the axial direction from one end of the holder in the axial direction when mounted on the holder. and a first cylindrical member that is detachably mounted on the other side in the axial direction of the holder, extends in the axial direction in a cylindrical shape, and is axially further than the other end of the holder in the axial direction when mounted on the holder. and a second tubular member projecting in the other direction.

この構成によれば、培養膜の両面に二種類の細胞を播種するうえで、細胞培養器具を、保持具に第一筒部材及び第二筒部材の双方を同時に装着して用いる必要はなく、第一筒部材及び第二筒部材のうち何れか下側に位置するものを保持具から取り外した状態で用いることができる。また、第一筒部材は、保持具に係合固定された状態で保持具の軸方向一方端よりも軸方向一方側に突出し、第二筒部材は、保持具に係合固定された状態で保持具の軸方向他方端よりも軸方向他方側に突出する。このため、細胞培養器具によれば、細胞培養を行う使用時、軸方向下端から培養膜が保持される保持部までの寸法距離を短縮することができるので、少量の培養液で培養膜に細胞を培養することができる。 According to this configuration, when seeding two types of cells on both sides of the culture membrane, it is not necessary to use the cell culture device with both the first cylindrical member and the second cylindrical member attached to the holder at the same time. Either of the first cylindrical member and the second cylindrical member can be used in a state where the lower one is removed from the holder. Further, the first cylindrical member protrudes axially one side from the one axial end of the holder in a state of being engaged and fixed to the holder, and the second cylindrical member is in a state of being engaged and fixed to the holder. It protrudes to the other axial side from the other axial end of the holder. Therefore, when the cell culture device is used for cell culture, the dimensional distance from the lower end in the axial direction to the holding portion that holds the culture membrane can be shortened. can be cultured.

第一実施形態に係る細胞培養器具の分解斜視図である。1 is an exploded perspective view of a cell culture instrument according to a first embodiment; FIG. 第一実施形態の細胞培養器具の断面図である。1 is a cross-sectional view of the cell culture device of the first embodiment; FIG. 第一実施形態の細胞培養器具において保持具により培養膜を保持する構造を説明するための断面図である。FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view for explaining a structure for holding a culture membrane with a holder in the cell culture device of the first embodiment; 第一実施形態の細胞培養器具における培養膜の一方の軸方向端面への細胞播種時の断面図である。FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the cell culture device of the first embodiment when cells are seeded on one axial end face of the culture membrane. 第一実施形態の細胞培養器具における培養膜の他方の軸方向端面への細胞播種時の断面図である。FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view when cells are seeded on the other axial end surface of the culture membrane in the cell culture device of the first embodiment. 第一実施形態の細胞培養器具における両面培養時の使用手順を表した一例のフローチャートである。4 is a flow chart showing an example of a procedure for using the cell culture device of the first embodiment during double-sided culture. 第二実施形態に係る細胞培養器具の断面図である。FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a cell culture device according to a second embodiment; 第二実施形態の細胞培養器具が備える保持具の分解斜視図である。FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of a holder included in the cell culture device of the second embodiment; 一変形形態に係る細胞培養器具の断面図である。FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a cell culture device according to one modification;

以下、本発明に係る細胞培養器具及びその使用方法の具体的な実施形態について、図面を用いて説明する。 Hereinafter, specific embodiments of a cell culture instrument and a method for using the same according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[第一実施形態]
第一実施形態の細胞培養器具1は、足場依存性のある細胞を培養する器具である。細胞培養器具1は、二種類の細胞を膜の両面に培養することが可能である。細胞培養器具1は、図1に示す如く、培養膜10と、保持具20と、第一筒部材30と、第二筒部材40と、を備えている。
[First embodiment]
The cell culture device 1 of the first embodiment is a device for culturing anchorage-dependent cells. The cell culture device 1 can culture two types of cells on both sides of the membrane. The cell culture device 1 includes a culture membrane 10, a holder 20, a first tubular member 30, and a second tubular member 40, as shown in FIG.

培養膜10は、細胞が培養されるシート状の膜である。培養膜10は、膜体11と、支持枠12と、を有している。膜体11は、細胞培養時に細胞の足場となる膜本体部である。膜体11は、両面に細孔が設けられた多孔質膜である。膜体11は、例えば、ポリウレタン、シリコーン樹脂、フェノール樹脂、エポキシ樹脂、不飽和ポリエステル、ポリイミドなどの熱硬化性樹脂により形成されている。膜体11の膜厚は、例えば0.1μm-100μmである。 The culture membrane 10 is a sheet-like membrane in which cells are cultured. The culture membrane 10 has a membrane body 11 and a support frame 12 . The membrane body 11 is a main membrane portion that serves as a scaffold for cells during cell culture. The membrane 11 is a porous membrane having pores on both sides. The film body 11 is made of, for example, a thermosetting resin such as polyurethane, silicone resin, phenol resin, epoxy resin, unsaturated polyester, and polyimide. The film thickness of the film body 11 is, for example, 0.1 μm to 100 μm.

支持枠12は、膜体11を支持して補強する基材である。支持枠12は、中央部に円形の孔12aが開いた環状の枠体である。支持枠12は、膜体11の周縁に接合されて固定されている。尚、支持枠12の形状は、少なくとも環状の枠体部を含むものであればよく、更に、その枠体部の周方向一部から径方向外側に向けて突出する突起部を含んでいてもよい。この突起部は、例えば、人がピンセットなどの治具で培養膜10を把持するときに取り扱い易くするための機能を有している。支持枠12は、膜体11よりも硬質な材料により形成されている。支持枠12の材料は、例えば、ポリエチレン、ポリプロピレン、ABS樹脂、アクリル樹脂、ポリエチレンテレフタレート(PET)などの熱可塑性樹脂、或いは、シリコーンゴムなどの熱硬化性エラストマーである。支持枠12の厚みは、例えば、0.05mm-0.5mmである。 The support frame 12 is a base material that supports and reinforces the membrane body 11 . The support frame 12 is an annular frame with a circular hole 12a in the center. The support frame 12 is joined and fixed to the periphery of the membrane body 11 . The shape of the support frame 12 may include at least a ring-shaped frame portion, and may include a projection projecting radially outward from a portion of the frame portion in the circumferential direction. good. The protrusion has a function of facilitating handling when a person grips the culture membrane 10 with a jig such as tweezers, for example. The support frame 12 is made of a material harder than the film body 11 . The material of the support frame 12 is, for example, thermoplastic resin such as polyethylene, polypropylene, ABS resin, acrylic resin, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or thermosetting elastomer such as silicone rubber. The thickness of the support frame 12 is, for example, 0.05 mm-0.5 mm.

保持具20は、培養膜10を保持するための部材である。保持具20は、樹脂材料やゴムなどにより形成されている。保持具20は、二つの保持筒からなり、第一保持筒21と、第二保持筒22と、を有している。第一保持筒21と第二保持筒22とは、互いに軸方向Xに隣接して配置される。第一保持筒21及び第二保持筒22は、互いに係合して固定された状態で培養膜10を保持する。保持具20に保持された培養膜10は、第一保持筒21及び第二保持筒22の軸方向開口を通じて軸方向両側に露出する。 The holder 20 is a member for holding the culture membrane 10 . The holder 20 is made of a resin material, rubber, or the like. The holder 20 is composed of two holding cylinders, and has a first holding cylinder 21 and a second holding cylinder 22 . The first holding cylinder 21 and the second holding cylinder 22 are arranged adjacent to each other in the axial direction X. As shown in FIG. The first holding tube 21 and the second holding tube 22 hold the culture membrane 10 in a fixed state in which they are engaged with each other. The culture membrane 10 held by the holder 20 is exposed on both sides in the axial direction through the axial openings of the first holding tube 21 and the second holding tube 22 .

第一保持筒21及び第二保持筒22は、互いに係脱可能に取り付けられる部材であって、図2に示す如く、互いに係合して固定される構造23を有している。この係合構造23は、互いの組付け状態で互いに離間する軸方向Xへの相対移動及び径方向への相対移動を規制させる係止構造である。この係合構造23が設けられる部位は、例えば第一保持筒21及び第二保持筒22に周方向二箇所以上(例えば、3箇所~5箇所)に設けられる。また、軸方向Xに延びるスリットが保持筒21,22に設けられる構造では、そのスリットを周方向に挟んだ分断部位それぞれに係合構造23が設けられることが好ましい。 The first holding cylinder 21 and the second holding cylinder 22 are members that are detachably attached to each other, and as shown in FIG. The engaging structure 23 is a locking structure that restricts the relative movement in the axial direction X and the relative movement in the radial direction that are separated from each other in the assembled state. The portions where the engaging structures 23 are provided are provided, for example, at two or more locations (eg, three to five locations) in the first holding cylinder 21 and the second holding cylinder 22 in the circumferential direction. Further, in the structure in which the holding cylinders 21 and 22 are provided with slits extending in the axial direction X, it is preferable that the engaging structures 23 are provided at respective divided portions sandwiching the slits in the circumferential direction.

上記の如く第一保持筒21と第二保持筒22とが互いに係合して固定された状態では、第一保持筒21及び第二保持筒22それぞれの互いに対向する軸方向端面が軸方向Xに離間する距離は、培養膜10(具体的には、その支持枠12)における組み付け前の軸方向厚みと同等以下となるように設定されている。これにより、培養膜10の支持枠12が第一保持筒21と第二保持筒22とに挟持されて固定される。この際、支持枠12と第一保持筒21との間及び支持枠12と第二保持筒22との間はシールされる。 In the state where the first holding tube 21 and the second holding tube 22 are engaged with each other and fixed as described above, the axial end surfaces of the first holding tube 21 and the second holding tube 22 facing each other are arranged in the axial direction X. is set to be equal to or smaller than the axial thickness of the culture membrane 10 (specifically, its support frame 12) before assembly. As a result, the support frame 12 of the culture membrane 10 is clamped and fixed between the first holding tube 21 and the second holding tube 22 . At this time, the space between the support frame 12 and the first holding cylinder 21 and the space between the support frame 12 and the second holding cylinder 22 are sealed.

尚、第一保持筒21と第二保持筒22との係合構造23は、例えば、第一保持筒21及び第二保持筒22のうちの一方の外面又は内面に設けられた径方向に凹んだ凹部と、他方の内面又は外面に設けられた径方向に突起する凸部と、からなるL溝係合構造であってよい。凹部は、例えば径方向から見てL字状に形成された溝であってよい。 The engagement structure 23 between the first holding tube 21 and the second holding tube 22 is, for example, a radially recessed portion provided on the outer surface or the inner surface of one of the first holding tube 21 and the second holding tube 22. It may be an L-groove engaging structure comprising a concave portion and a radially projecting convex portion provided on the other inner surface or outer surface. The recess may be, for example, an L-shaped groove when viewed from the radial direction.

また、第一保持筒21と第二保持筒22との係合構造23は、例えば、第一保持筒21及び第二保持筒22のうちの一方に設けられた径方向に弾性変形可能な弾性変形部と、他方に設けられた径方向に凹んだ溝部と、からなるスナップフィット方式の係合構造であってよい。このスナップフィット方式の係合構造では、第一保持筒21と第二保持筒22とが組付け時に互いに軸方向に接近された際、弾性変形部の軸方向先端部に設けた径方向に突出する爪部が溝部に嵌って引っ掛かることにより、第一保持筒21と第二保持筒22とが互いに係合して固定される。 Further, the engagement structure 23 between the first holding cylinder 21 and the second holding cylinder 22 is, for example, an elastic member provided in one of the first holding cylinder 21 and the second holding cylinder 22 and capable of being elastically deformed in the radial direction. It may be a snap-fit engagement structure comprising a deformable portion and a radially recessed groove portion provided on the other side. In this snap-fit type engagement structure, when the first holding cylinder 21 and the second holding cylinder 22 are brought closer together in the axial direction during assembly, the elastically deforming portion protrudes in the radial direction provided at the axial tip of the elastic deformation portion. The first holding tube 21 and the second holding tube 22 are engaged with each other and fixed by the claw portion being fitted and caught in the groove portion.

第一保持筒21は、軸方向Xに筒状に延びる中空の第一筒部21aと、培養膜10を保持する第一保持部21bと、第一筒部21aを径方向に貫通するように設けられた第一側面開口部21cと、を有している。第二保持筒22は、軸方向Xに筒状に延びる中空の第二筒部22aと、培養膜10を保持する第二保持部22bと、第二筒部22aを径方向に貫通するように設けられた第二側面開口部22cと、を有している。 The first holding cylinder 21 has a hollow first cylindrical portion 21a extending cylindrically in the axial direction X, a first holding portion 21b that holds the culture membrane 10, and a first cylindrical portion 21a so as to radially penetrate the first cylindrical portion 21a. and a first side opening 21c provided. The second holding cylinder 22 has a hollow second cylindrical portion 22a extending cylindrically in the axial direction X, a second holding portion 22b that holds the culture membrane 10, and a second cylindrical portion 22a that radially penetrates the second cylindrical portion 22a. and a second side opening 22c provided.

第一筒部21a及び第二筒部22aはそれぞれ、軸方向Xに所定長さLa1,La2を有している。尚、第一筒部21a及び第二筒部22aの軸方向長さ同士は、略一致していてよい。第一筒部21a及び第二筒部22aは、保持具20における軸方向Xに筒状に延びる本体筒部を構成している。 The first tubular portion 21a and the second tubular portion 22a have predetermined lengths La1 and La2 in the axial direction X, respectively. In addition, the axial lengths of the first cylindrical portion 21a and the second cylindrical portion 22a may be substantially the same. The first tubular portion 21 a and the second tubular portion 22 a form a tubular main body portion extending in the axial direction X of the holder 20 .

第一筒部21a及び第二筒部22aはそれぞれ、径方向に所定厚さを有している。図3に示す如く、第一筒部21a及び第二筒部22aの外径同士は、略一致していると共に、それらの内径同士は、略一致している。培養膜10の外径(すなわち、支持枠12の外径)は、第一筒部21a及び第二筒部22aの内径を超えている。尚、培養膜10の外径は、第一筒部21a及び第二筒部22aの外径よりも小さくてよい。第一保持筒21及び第二保持筒22は、第一筒部21a及び第二筒部22aの軸方向Xに向いた軸方向端面同士が対向した状態で互いに係合することにより、培養膜10を挟持して保持する。 The first cylindrical portion 21a and the second cylindrical portion 22a each have a predetermined thickness in the radial direction. As shown in FIG. 3, the outer diameters of the first cylindrical portion 21a and the second cylindrical portion 22a are substantially the same, and the inner diameters thereof are substantially the same. The outer diameter of the culture membrane 10 (that is, the outer diameter of the support frame 12) exceeds the inner diameters of the first tubular portion 21a and the second tubular portion 22a. The outer diameter of the culture membrane 10 may be smaller than the outer diameters of the first cylindrical portion 21a and the second cylindrical portion 22a. The first holding tube 21 and the second holding tube 22 are engaged with each other with the axial end surfaces of the first tube portion 21a and the second tube portion 22a facing in the axial direction X facing each other. is sandwiched and held.

第一保持部21b及び第二保持部22bは、第一筒部21a及び第二筒部22aそれぞれにおける互いに対向する軸方向端面である。この第一保持部21b及び第二保持部22bとしての軸方向端面は、培養膜10の支持枠12に当接可能な当接部である。第一保持部21bは、培養膜10の軸方向一方側の軸方向端面に当接している。第二保持部22bは、培養膜10の軸方向他方側の軸方向端面に当接している。第一保持部21b及び第二保持部22bはそれぞれ、環状に形成されている。第一保持部21b及び第二保持部22bは、保持具20全体での本体筒部の軸方向中間部に位置して設けられている。 The first holding portion 21b and the second holding portion 22b are axial end surfaces of the first cylindrical portion 21a and the second cylindrical portion 22a, respectively, which face each other. Axial end surfaces of the first holding portion 21b and the second holding portion 22b are contact portions that can contact the support frame 12 of the culture membrane 10 . The first holding portion 21b is in contact with the axial end surface of the culture membrane 10 on one side in the axial direction. The second holding portion 22b is in contact with the axial end surface of the culture membrane 10 on the other side in the axial direction. Each of the first holding portion 21b and the second holding portion 22b is formed in an annular shape. The first holding portion 21b and the second holding portion 22b are provided so as to be located in an axially intermediate portion of the body tubular portion of the entire holder 20. As shown in FIG.

第一側面開口部21cは、第一筒部21aの所定部位を径方向に貫通するように設けられた、その第一筒部21aの内部を外部に連通させるスリット孔部である。第一側面開口部21cは、周方向に一箇所設けられている。第一側面開口部21cが設けられる所定部位は、第一筒部21aが第二筒部22aの下方に位置する状態での細胞培養時に少なくとも第一保持部21bに保持される培養膜10よりも軸方向Xの下方側の箇所を含んでおり、その第一保持部21bから軸方向一方側に延びるように形成されている。第一側面開口部21cは、第一筒部21aの軸方向全体に亘って延びている。第一側面開口部21cは、第一保持部21bに保持された培養膜10の下面に溜まるエアを外部に放出するエア抜き機能を有している。 The first side opening portion 21c is a slit hole portion that is provided so as to radially penetrate through a predetermined portion of the first cylindrical portion 21a and that communicates the inside of the first cylindrical portion 21a with the outside. One first side opening 21c is provided in the circumferential direction. The predetermined portion where the first side opening 21c is provided is larger than the culture membrane 10 held by at least the first holding portion 21b during cell culture with the first cylindrical portion 21a positioned below the second cylindrical portion 22a. It includes a portion on the lower side in the axial direction X, and is formed to extend from the first holding portion 21b to one side in the axial direction. The first side opening 21c extends along the entire axial direction of the first cylindrical portion 21a. The first side opening 21c has an air venting function that releases air accumulated on the lower surface of the culture membrane 10 held by the first holding portion 21b to the outside.

第二側面開口部22cは、第二筒部22aの所定部位を径方向に貫通するように設けられた、その第二筒部22aの内部を外部に連通させるスリット孔部である。第二側面開口部22cは、周方向に一箇所設けられている。第二側面開口部22cが設けられる所定部位は、第二筒部22aが第一筒部21aの下方に位置する状態での細胞培養時に少なくとも第二保持部22bに保持される培養膜10よりも軸方向Xの下方側の箇所を含んでおり、その第二保持部22bから軸方向他方側に延びるように形成されている。第二側面開口部22cは、第二筒部22aの軸方向全体に亘って延びている。第二側面開口部22cは、第二保持部22bに保持された培養膜10の下面に溜まるエアを外部に放出するエア抜き機能を有している。 The second side opening portion 22c is a slit hole portion that is provided so as to radially penetrate through a predetermined portion of the second cylindrical portion 22a and that communicates the inside of the second cylindrical portion 22a with the outside. One second side opening 22c is provided in the circumferential direction. The predetermined portion where the second side opening 22c is provided is at least higher than the culture membrane 10 held by the second holding portion 22b during cell culture in a state where the second cylindrical portion 22a is positioned below the first cylindrical portion 21a. It includes a portion on the lower side in the axial direction X and is formed to extend from the second holding portion 22b to the other side in the axial direction. The second side opening 22c extends along the entire axial direction of the second tubular portion 22a. The second side opening 22c has an air venting function that releases air accumulated on the lower surface of the culture membrane 10 held by the second holding part 22b to the outside.

第一筒部材30及び第二筒部材40はそれぞれ、保持具20に取り付けられる筒状の部材である。第一筒部材30及び第二筒部材40はそれぞれ、樹脂材料やゴムなどにより形成されている。第一筒部材30及び第二筒部材40は、培養膜10への細胞培養時において選択的に保持具20に取り付けられる。すなわち、培養膜10の一方の軸方向端面に一種目の細胞が播種されるときは、第一筒部材30が保持具20に取り付けられ、一方、培養膜10の他方の軸方向端面に二種目の細胞が播種されるときは、第二筒部材40が保持具20に取り付けられる。 The first tubular member 30 and the second tubular member 40 are tubular members attached to the holder 20, respectively. The first cylindrical member 30 and the second cylindrical member 40 are each made of a resin material, rubber, or the like. The first cylindrical member 30 and the second cylindrical member 40 are selectively attached to the holder 20 during cell culture on the culture membrane 10 . That is, when the first type of cells are seeded on one axial end face of the culture membrane 10 , the first cylindrical member 30 is attached to the holder 20 , while the other axial end face of the culture membrane 10 is seeded with the second type of cells. The second cylindrical member 40 is attached to the holder 20 when the cells are seeded.

第一筒部材30は、軸方向Xに筒状に延びる中空の筒部31を有している。第一筒部材30は、保持具20(具体的には、第一保持筒21)に対して軸方向一方側に装着される。第一筒部材30は、保持具20(具体的には、第一保持筒21)に対して着脱可能である。すなわち、第一筒部材30及び第一保持筒21は、互いに係脱可能に取り付けられる。第一筒部材30及び第一保持筒21は、上記した保持具20の第一保持筒21及び第二保持筒22の係合構造23の如き、互いに係合して固定される構造Aを有している。保持具20に保持された培養膜10は、第一筒部材30の軸方向開口を通じて軸方向一方側に露出する。 The first tubular member 30 has a hollow tubular portion 31 extending in the axial direction X in a tubular shape. The first cylindrical member 30 is mounted on one side in the axial direction with respect to the holder 20 (specifically, the first holding cylinder 21). The first cylindrical member 30 is attachable/detachable to/from the holder 20 (specifically, the first holding cylinder 21). That is, the first cylinder member 30 and the first holding cylinder 21 are detachably attached to each other. The first cylindrical member 30 and the first holding cylinder 21 have a structure A that engages and is fixed to each other, such as the engaging structure 23 of the first holding cylinder 21 and the second holding cylinder 22 of the holder 20 described above. is doing. The culture membrane 10 held by the holder 20 is exposed to one side in the axial direction through the axial opening of the first tubular member 30 .

第一筒部材30は、保持具20の第一保持筒21に挿入可能に形成されている。第一筒部材30は、第一保持筒21の第一筒部21a内に挿入された状態に取り付けられる。第一筒部材30は、第一保持筒21の内径に一致する外径を有している。第一筒部材30の筒部31は、第一保持筒21に係合固定された状態で第一保持筒21の軸方向一方端よりも軸方向一方側に突出する第一突出部32を有している。 The first cylinder member 30 is formed to be insertable into the first holding cylinder 21 of the holder 20 . The first cylindrical member 30 is attached while being inserted into the first cylindrical portion 21 a of the first holding cylinder 21 . The first cylinder member 30 has an outer diameter that matches the inner diameter of the first holding cylinder 21 . The cylindrical portion 31 of the first cylindrical member 30 has a first projecting portion 32 that projects toward one axial side from one axial end of the first holding cylinder 21 while being engaged and fixed to the first holding cylinder 21 . is doing.

具体的には、第一筒部材30は、第一保持筒21に係合固定された状態で、筒部31における挿入側の軸方向端面が、第一保持筒21と第二保持筒22とに挟持固定される培養膜10の一方の軸方向端面に当接するように、かつ、筒部31におけるその挿入側とは反対側の軸方向端面が、第一保持筒21の軸方向一方端よりも軸方向一方側に突出した位置に配置されるように形成されている。すなわち、第一筒部材30の軸方向Xの長さLb1は、第一保持筒21の第一筒部21aの軸方向Xの長さLa1に比して大きくなるように設定されている。 Specifically, when the first cylindrical member 30 is engaged and fixed to the first holding cylinder 21 , the axial end surface of the cylindrical portion 31 on the insertion side is aligned with the first holding cylinder 21 and the second holding cylinder 22 . The axial end face of the tubular portion 31 on the side opposite to the insertion side thereof extends from the first axial end of the first holding tube 21 so as to abut on one axial end face of the culture membrane 10 clamped and fixed in the is formed so as to be arranged at a position protruding to one side in the axial direction. That is, the length Lb1 in the axial direction X of the first cylindrical member 30 is set to be larger than the length La1 in the axial direction X of the first cylindrical portion 21a of the first holding cylinder 21 .

また、第二筒部材40は、軸方向Xに筒状に延びる中空の筒部41を有している。第二筒部材40は、保持具20(具体的には、第二保持筒22)に対して軸方向他方側に装着される。第二筒部材40は、保持具20(具体的には、第二保持筒22)に対して着脱可能である。すなわち、第二筒部材40及び第二保持筒22は、互いに係脱可能に取り付けられる。第二筒部材40及び第二保持筒22は、上記した保持具20の第一保持筒21及び第二保持筒22の係合構造23の如き、互いに係合して固定される構造Bを有している。保持具20に保持された培養膜10は、第二筒部材40の軸方向開口を通じて軸方向他方側に露出する。 Further, the second tubular member 40 has a hollow tubular portion 41 extending in the axial direction X in a tubular shape. The second cylindrical member 40 is mounted on the other side in the axial direction with respect to the holder 20 (specifically, the second holding cylinder 22). The second cylinder member 40 is detachable from the holder 20 (specifically, the second holding cylinder 22). That is, the second cylinder member 40 and the second holding cylinder 22 are attached so as to be detachable from each other. The second cylindrical member 40 and the second holding cylinder 22 have a structure B that is fixed by engaging with each other, such as the engaging structure 23 of the first holding cylinder 21 and the second holding cylinder 22 of the holder 20 described above. is doing. The culture membrane 10 held by the holder 20 is exposed on the other side in the axial direction through the axial opening of the second tubular member 40 .

第二筒部材40は、保持具20の第二保持筒22に挿入可能に形成されている。第二筒部材40は、第二保持筒22の第二筒部22a内に挿入された状態に取り付けられる。第二筒部材40は、第二保持筒22の内径に一致する外径を有している。第二筒部材40の筒部41は、第二保持筒22に係合固定された状態で第二保持筒22の軸方向他方端よりも軸方向他方側に突出する第二突出部42を有している。 The second cylinder member 40 is formed to be insertable into the second holding cylinder 22 of the holder 20 . The second cylindrical member 40 is attached while being inserted into the second cylindrical portion 22 a of the second holding cylinder 22 . The second cylinder member 40 has an outer diameter that matches the inner diameter of the second holding cylinder 22 . The cylindrical portion 41 of the second cylindrical member 40 has a second projecting portion 42 that projects toward the other axial side from the other axial end of the second holding cylinder 22 while being engaged and fixed to the second holding cylinder 22 . is doing.

具体的には、第二筒部材40は、第二保持筒22に係合固定された状態で、筒部41における挿入側の軸方向端面が、第一保持筒21と第二保持筒22とに挟持固定される培養膜10の他方の軸方向端面に当接するように、かつ、筒部41におけるその挿入側とは反対側の軸方向端面が、第二保持筒22の軸方向他方端よりも軸方向他方側に突出した位置に配置されるように形成されている。すなわち、第二筒部材40の軸方向Xの長さLb2は、第二保持筒22の第二筒部22aの軸方向Xの長さLa2に比して大きくなるように設定されている。 Specifically, in a state where the second cylindrical member 40 is engaged and fixed to the second holding cylinder 22 , the axial end surface of the cylindrical portion 41 on the insertion side is aligned with the first holding cylinder 21 and the second holding cylinder 22 . The other axial end face of the culture membrane 10 clamped and fixed between the second holding cylinder 22 and the axial end face on the side opposite to the insertion side of the cylindrical portion 41 is positioned from the other axial end of the second holding cylinder 22 so as to abut on the other axial end face. is arranged at a position projecting to the other side in the axial direction. That is, the length Lb2 in the axial direction X of the second cylindrical member 40 is set to be larger than the length La2 in the axial direction X of the second cylindrical portion 22a of the second holding cylinder 22 .

次に、図4、図5、及び図6を参照して、細胞培養器具1の組み立て方法及びその使用方法について説明する。 Next, a method for assembling the cell culture device 1 and a method for using the same will be described with reference to FIGS. 4, 5 and 6. FIG.

細胞培養器具1の構成部品である培養膜10、保持具20、第一筒部材30、及び第二筒部材40を用意する。尚、培養膜10及び保持具20は、保持具20の第一保持筒21及び第二保持筒22が互いに係合して固定されることで培養膜10が保持された状態にあるものを用いるものとすればよい。 The culture membrane 10, the holder 20, the first cylindrical member 30, and the second cylindrical member 40, which are components of the cell culture device 1, are prepared. The culture membrane 10 and the holder 20 are in a state in which the culture membrane 10 is held by engaging and fixing the first holding cylinder 21 and the second holding cylinder 22 of the holder 20 to each other. It should be.

細胞培養器具1の組み立ては、ピンセットなどの治具を用いた人の手作業により行われる。この組み立て手順としては、まず、培養膜10が保持された保持具20への第一筒部材30の組み付けが行われる。この組み付けは、まず、保持具20を、第一筒部材30を挿入する軸方向端部側が上方に位置するようにセットした状態で、治具で第一筒部材30を把持したうえで、その第一筒部材30を保持具20に対して上方から軸方向Xの互いに近づく方向へ移動させて挿入し、その後、保持具20と第一筒部材30とを構造Aで互いに係合固定することにより実現される。 Assembly of the cell culture instrument 1 is performed manually by a person using a jig such as tweezers. As the assembly procedure, first, the first cylindrical member 30 is assembled to the holder 20 holding the culture membrane 10 . For this assembly, first, the retainer 20 is set so that the axial end side into which the first cylindrical member 30 is inserted is positioned upward, and then the first cylindrical member 30 is gripped by a jig, and then The first cylindrical member 30 is moved from above into the holder 20 in the axial direction X in the direction of approaching each other and inserted, and then the holder 20 and the first cylindrical member 30 are engaged and fixed to each other by the structure A. It is realized by

かかる組み付けが行われると、第一筒部材30が保持具20に装着されて、その第一突出部32が保持具20の第一保持筒21の軸方向一方端よりも軸方向一方側の外方に突出した状態になる(図4に示す状態;図6に示すステップS100)。この状態の細胞培養器具1に対して培養膜10への細胞培養が行われる。この細胞培養は、細胞培養器具1を細胞培養用プレートのウェル内に入れて培養液で満たし、培養膜10(具体的には、膜体11)の一方の軸方向端面(図4に示す上面)に細胞αを播種させることとすればよい。この細胞αの播種は、まず、培養膜10の一方の軸方向端面が鉛直上方を向くように細胞培養器具1を培養液中に浸漬し、その状態でその一方の軸方向端面側の空間に対して細胞αを供給することにより行われる(ステップS110)。 When such assembly is performed, the first cylindrical member 30 is attached to the holder 20, and the first projecting portion 32 of the first cylindrical member 30 is positioned outside the one axial end of the first holding cylinder 21 of the holder 20 in the axial direction. (state shown in FIG. 4; step S100 shown in FIG. 6). Cell culture is performed on the culture membrane 10 with respect to the cell culture device 1 in this state. This cell culture is carried out by placing the cell culture device 1 in the wells of a cell culture plate, filling the wells with a culture solution, and removing the ) is seeded with cells α. In seeding the cells α, first, the cell culture device 1 is immersed in a culture solution so that one axial end surface of the culture membrane 10 faces vertically upward, and in this state, the space on the one axial end surface side is filled with This is performed by supplying cells α to the cells (step S110).

上記の如く細胞αの播種が完了すると、次に、治具を用いて、保持具20から第一筒部材30が取り外され(ステップS120)、その後、保持具20が、培養膜10を保持したまま上下反転される(ステップS130)。 When the seeding of cells α is completed as described above, next, the jig is used to remove the first cylindrical member 30 from the holder 20 (step S120), and then the holder 20 holds the culture membrane 10. It is turned upside down as it is (step S130).

保持具20が上下反転されると、次に、その保持具20への第二筒部材40の組み付けが行われる。この組み付けは、まず、保持具20を、第一筒部材30を挿入する軸方向端部側とは反対側である第二筒部材40を挿入する軸方向端部側が上方に位置するようにセットした状態で、治具で第二筒部材40を把持したうえで、その第二筒部材40を保持具20に対して上方から軸方向Xの互いに近づく方向へ移動させて挿入し、その後、保持具20と第二筒部材40とを構造Bで互いに係合固定することにより実現される。 After the holder 20 is turned upside down, the second cylindrical member 40 is assembled to the holder 20 next. In this assembly, first, the holder 20 is set so that the axial end side into which the second cylindrical member 40 is inserted, which is opposite to the axial end side into which the first cylindrical member 30 is inserted, is positioned upward. In this state, the second cylindrical member 40 is gripped by a jig, and the second cylindrical member 40 is moved from above to the holder 20 in the direction of the axial direction X to approach each other, and then held. It is realized by engaging and fixing the tool 20 and the second cylindrical member 40 with each other in the structure B.

かかる組み付けが行われると、第二筒部材40が保持具20に装着されて、その第二突出部42が保持具20の第二保持筒22の軸方向他方端よりも軸方向他方側の外方に突出した状態になる(図5に示す状態;ステップS140)。この状態の細胞培養器具1に対して培養膜10への細胞培養が行われる。この細胞培養は、細胞培養器具1を細胞培養用プレートのウェル内に入れて培養液で満たし、培養膜10(具体的には、膜体11)の他方の軸方向端面(図5に示す上面)に細胞βを播種させることとすればよい。この細胞β得の播種は、まず、培養膜10の他方の軸方向端面が鉛直上方を向くように細胞培養器具1を培養液中に浸漬し、その状態でその他方の軸方向端面側の空間に対して細胞βを供給することにより行われる(ステップS150)。 When such assembly is performed, the second cylindrical member 40 is attached to the holder 20, and the second projecting portion 42 of the second tubular member 42 is positioned outside the second axial end of the second holding cylinder 22 of the holder 20 on the other side in the axial direction. It will be in a state of protruding in the direction (the state shown in FIG. 5; step S140). Cell culture is performed on the culture membrane 10 with respect to the cell culture device 1 in this state. This cell culture is carried out by placing the cell culture device 1 in the wells of a cell culture plate, filling the wells with a culture solution, and removing the other axial end surface (the upper surface shown in FIG. ) is seeded with cells β. To seed the cells β, first, the cell culture device 1 is immersed in the culture solution so that the other axial end surface of the culture membrane 10 faces vertically upward, and in this state, the space on the other axial end surface side is (step S150).

上記の如く細胞βの播種が完了すると、次に、治具を用いて、保持具20から第二筒部材40が取り外される(ステップS160)。そして、保持具20から細胞培養が行われた培養膜10が取り外されて、その培養膜10の膜体11の顕微鏡観察などが行われる。 When seeding of the cells β is completed as described above, next, the jig is used to remove the second cylindrical member 40 from the holder 20 (step S160). Then, the culture membrane 10 on which the cell culture has been performed is removed from the holder 20, and the membrane body 11 of the culture membrane 10 is observed with a microscope.

このように、細胞培養器具1の構造によれば、培養膜10の両面に二種類の細胞を播種して細胞培養を行うことができる。また、培養膜10の両面に二種類の細胞を播種するうえで、培養膜10の一方の軸方向端面への細胞播種の際及び他方の軸方向端面への細胞播種の際の何れのときにも、培養膜10を保持する保持具20の上側に第一筒部材30及び第二筒部材40のうち何れか一方を装着することは必要であるが、その保持具20の下側に何れか他方を装着することは不要である。すなわち、培養膜10の両面に二種類の細胞を播種するうえで、細胞培養器具1を、保持具20に第一筒部材30及び第二筒部材40の双方を同時に装着して用いる必要はなく、第一筒部材30及び第二筒部材40のうち何れか下側に位置するものを保持具20から取り外した状態で用いることができる。 Thus, according to the structure of the cell culture device 1, two types of cells can be seeded on both sides of the culture membrane 10 for cell culture. Also, when two types of cells are seeded on both surfaces of the culture membrane 10, when the cells are seeded on one axial end face of the culture membrane 10 and when the cells are seeded on the other axial end face Also, although it is necessary to attach either one of the first cylindrical member 30 and the second cylindrical member 40 to the upper side of the holder 20 that holds the culture membrane 10, either one of the It is unnecessary to wear the other. That is, when seeding two types of cells on both sides of the culture membrane 10, it is not necessary to use the cell culture device 1 with both the first cylindrical member 30 and the second cylindrical member 40 attached to the holder 20 at the same time. , the lower one of the first cylindrical member 30 and the second cylindrical member 40 can be used in a state in which it is removed from the holder 20 .

第一筒部材30の軸方向Xの長さLb1は、第一保持筒21の第一筒部21aの軸方向Xの長さLa1に比して大きく、第一筒部材30は、第一保持筒21に係合固定された状態で、第一突出部32にて第一保持筒21の軸方向一方端よりも軸方向一方側に突出する。また、第二筒部材40の軸方向Xの長さLb2は、第二保持筒22の第二筒部22aの軸方向Xの長さLa2に比して大きく、第二筒部材40は、第二保持筒22に係合固定された状態で、第二突出部42にて第二保持筒22の軸方向他方端よりも軸方向他方側に突出する。このため、細胞培養器具1によれば、細胞培養を行う使用時、軸方向下端から培養膜10が保持される保持部21b,22bまでの寸法距離を短縮することができるので、ウェルの小容量化を図ることができ、少量の培養液で培養膜に細胞を培養することが可能となる。 The length Lb1 in the axial direction X of the first cylindrical member 30 is greater than the length La1 in the axial direction X of the first cylindrical portion 21a of the first holding cylinder 21. In a state of being engaged and fixed to the cylinder 21 , the first projecting portion 32 projects from the one axial end of the first holding cylinder 21 toward the one axial side. In addition, the length Lb2 of the second cylindrical member 40 in the axial direction X is greater than the length La2 of the second cylindrical portion 22a of the second holding cylinder 22 in the axial direction X. In a state of being engaged and fixed to the second holding cylinder 22 , the second projecting portion 42 projects further to the other axial side than the other axial end of the second holding cylinder 22 . Therefore, according to the cell culture device 1, when used for cell culture, the dimensional distance from the axial lower end to the holding portions 21b and 22b in which the culture membrane 10 is held can be shortened. This makes it possible to culture cells on the culture membrane with a small amount of culture solution.

また、細胞培養器具1において、保持具20の第一保持筒21は、第一筒部21aを径方向に貫通する第一側面開口部21cを有している。保持具20の第二保持筒22は、第二筒部22aを径方向に貫通する第二側面開口部22cを有している。側面開口部21c,22cはそれぞれ、保持部21b,22bに保持される培養膜10よりも軸方向Xの下方側の箇所を含む所定部位に設けられている。このため、培養膜10の両面に溜まるエアを側面開口部21c,22cを介して保持具20の外部へ放出することができる。 In addition, in the cell culture device 1, the first holding cylinder 21 of the holder 20 has a first side opening 21c radially penetrating the first cylindrical part 21a. The second holding tube 22 of the holding tool 20 has a second side opening 22c radially penetrating through the second tube portion 22a. The side openings 21c and 22c are provided at predetermined positions including positions below the culture membrane 10 held by the holding parts 21b and 22b in the axial direction X, respectively. Therefore, the air accumulated on both surfaces of the culture membrane 10 can be released to the outside of the holder 20 through the side openings 21c and 22c.

特に、保持具20に保持される培養膜10の一方の軸方向端面への細胞播種後、その保持具20を上下反転させて培養膜10の他方の軸方向端面への細胞播種を行う際に、培養膜10における既に細胞播種がなされている一方の軸方向端面に溜まるエアを側面開口部21cを介して保持具20の外部へ放出することができる。従って、最初に播種される細胞の培養面上にエアが残留するのを防止することができ、そのエア残留に起因する不都合(例えば、最初に播種された細胞が培養液に接触しないことなど)を回避することができる。 In particular, after cell seeding on one axial end surface of the culture membrane 10 held by the holder 20, the holder 20 is turned upside down to seed the cells on the other axial end surface of the culture membrane 10. , the air accumulated on one axial end face of the culture membrane 10 already seeded with cells can be released to the outside of the holder 20 through the side opening 21c. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the air from remaining on the culture surface of the cells that are seeded first, and the inconvenience caused by the residual air (for example, the cells that were seeded first do not come into contact with the culture solution). can be avoided.

また、細胞培養器具1において、培養膜10は、細胞が播種される膜体11と、その膜体11に接合され、その膜体11よりも硬質な材料により形成された支持枠12と、を有している。培養膜10は、支持枠12にて保持具20の第一保持筒21と第二保持筒22とに挟持されて固定される。このため、培養膜10を治具で取り扱ううえで比較的硬質な支持枠12を用いればよいので、培養膜10の取り扱いを容易化することができる。また、支持枠12は、膜体11の周縁に接合されて環状に形成されている。このため、培養膜10の膜体11の顕微鏡観察などの評価を、支持枠12を膜体11に接合させたまま行うことができる。 In the cell culture device 1, the culture membrane 10 includes a membrane body 11 on which cells are seeded, and a support frame 12 joined to the membrane body 11 and formed of a material harder than the membrane body 11. have. The culture membrane 10 is clamped and fixed between the first holding tube 21 and the second holding tube 22 of the holder 20 by the support frame 12 . Therefore, when the culture membrane 10 is handled with a jig, a relatively rigid support frame 12 may be used, and the handling of the culture membrane 10 can be facilitated. Further, the support frame 12 is joined to the peripheral edge of the film body 11 and formed in an annular shape. Therefore, evaluation such as microscopic observation of the membrane body 11 of the culture membrane 10 can be performed while the support frame 12 is joined to the membrane body 11 .

更に、保持具20は、第一保持筒21と第二保持筒22とが互いに係合して固定されることによりそれらの第一保持筒21と第二保持筒22とにより培養膜10を挟持して保持する。このため、培養膜10を保持した状態で保持具20を簡単に組み立てることができると共に、組み立て後の保持具20を第一保持筒21と第二保持筒22とに簡単に分離させることができ、培養膜10を保持具20から簡単に取り出すことができる。これにより、細胞培養後の培養膜10に対して単独で顕微鏡観察などの評価を行うことができ、培養膜と保持具とが一体となった構造に比べて、その評価を容易かつ適切に行うことができる。 Furthermore, the first holding tube 21 and the second holding tube 22 are engaged with each other and fixed so that the holding tool 20 holds the culture membrane 10 between the first holding tube 21 and the second holding tube 22. and hold. Therefore, the holder 20 can be easily assembled while holding the culture membrane 10, and the assembled holder 20 can be easily separated into the first holding tube 21 and the second holding tube 22. , the culture membrane 10 can be easily removed from the holder 20 . As a result, the culture membrane 10 after cell culture can be evaluated by microscopic observation or the like independently, and the evaluation can be performed easily and appropriately compared to the structure in which the culture membrane and the holder are integrated. be able to.

尚、上記の第一実施形態においては、第一保持筒21の第一保持部21b及び第二保持筒22の第二保持部22bがそれぞれ、特許請求の範囲に記載した「保持部」に相当している。 In the first embodiment described above, the first holding portion 21b of the first holding cylinder 21 and the second holding portion 22b of the second holding cylinder 22 respectively correspond to the "holding portion" described in the claims. is doing.

また、上記の第一実施形態においては、二種類の細胞を培養膜10の両面に播種することとしている。しかしながら、本発明は、これに限定されるものではなく、三種類以上の細胞を培養膜10の両面に播種することとしてもよい。例えば、三種類の細胞を用意して、二種類の細胞を培養膜10の一方の面に播種し、その後、培養膜10を裏返して、一種類の細胞を培養膜10の他方の面に播種することとしてもよい。 Also, in the first embodiment described above, two types of cells are seeded on both sides of the culture membrane 10 . However, the present invention is not limited to this, and three or more types of cells may be seeded on both sides of the culture membrane 10 . For example, three types of cells are prepared, two types of cells are seeded on one side of the culture membrane 10, then the culture membrane 10 is turned over, and one type of cells is seeded on the other side of the culture membrane 10. It is also possible to

[第二実施形態]
第二実施形態の細胞培養器具100は、第一実施形態の細胞培養器具1と同様に、二種類の細胞を膜の両面に培養することが可能である。細胞培養器具100は、図7に示す如く、培養膜10と、保持具120と、第一筒部材130と、第二筒部材140と、を備えている。尚、第二実施形態において、上記第一実施形態における細胞培養器具1の構成と同一の構成部分については、同一の符号を付してその説明を省略又は簡略する。
[Second embodiment]
Like the cell culture device 1 of the first embodiment, the cell culture device 100 of the second embodiment can culture two types of cells on both sides of the membrane. The cell culture device 100 includes a culture membrane 10, a holder 120, a first tubular member 130, and a second tubular member 140, as shown in FIG. In addition, in the second embodiment, the same components as those of the cell culture device 1 in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof are omitted or simplified.

保持具120は、培養膜10を保持するための部材である。保持具120は、樹脂材料やゴムなどにより形成されている。保持具120は、図8に示す如く、二つの保持筒からなり、第一保持筒121と、第二保持筒122と、を有している。第一保持筒121と第二保持筒122とは、互いに軸方向Xに隣接して配置される。第一保持筒121及び第二保持筒122は、互いに係合して固定された状態で培養膜10を保持する。保持具120に保持された培養膜10は、第一保持筒121及び第二保持筒122の軸方向開口を通じて軸方向両側に露出する。 The holder 120 is a member for holding the culture membrane 10 . The holder 120 is made of a resin material, rubber, or the like. As shown in FIG. 8, the holder 120 consists of two holding cylinders, a first holding cylinder 121 and a second holding cylinder 122 . The first holding cylinder 121 and the second holding cylinder 122 are arranged adjacent to each other in the axial direction X. As shown in FIG. The first holding tube 121 and the second holding tube 122 hold the culture membrane 10 in a fixed state in which they are engaged with each other. The culture membrane 10 held by the holder 120 is exposed on both sides in the axial direction through the axial openings of the first holding tube 121 and the second holding tube 122 .

第一保持筒121及び第二保持筒122は、互いに係脱可能に取り付けられる部材であって、互いに係合して固定される構造を有している。この係合構造は、第一実施形態における保持具20の係合構造23と同様のL溝係合構造やスナップフィット方式の係合構造であってよい。第一保持筒121と第二保持筒122とが互いに係合して固定された状態では、第一保持筒121及び第二保持筒122それぞれの互いに対向する保持部が軸方向Xに離間する距離は、培養膜10(具体的には、その支持枠12)における組み付け前の軸方向厚みよりも小さくなるように設定されている。これにより、培養膜10の支持枠12が第一保持筒121と第二保持筒122とに挟持されて固定される。この際、支持枠12と第一保持筒121との間及び支持枠12と第二保持筒122との間はシールされる。 The first holding tube 121 and the second holding tube 122 are members that are detachably attached to each other, and have a structure that they are fixed by being engaged with each other. This engagement structure may be an L-groove engagement structure or a snap-fit type engagement structure similar to the engagement structure 23 of the holder 20 in the first embodiment. In a state where the first holding cylinder 121 and the second holding cylinder 122 are engaged with each other and fixed, the distance in which the mutually opposing holding portions of the first holding cylinder 121 and the second holding cylinder 122 are separated in the axial direction X is set to be smaller than the axial thickness of the culture membrane 10 (specifically, its support frame 12) before assembly. As a result, the support frame 12 of the culture membrane 10 is clamped and fixed between the first holding tube 121 and the second holding tube 122 . At this time, the space between the support frame 12 and the first holding cylinder 121 and the space between the support frame 12 and the second holding cylinder 122 are sealed.

第一保持筒121は、軸方向Xに筒状に延びる中空の第一筒部121aと、培養膜10を保持する第一保持部121bと、第一筒部121aを径方向に貫通するように設けられた第一側面開口部121cと、を有している。第二保持筒122は、軸方向Xに筒状に延びる中空の第二筒部122aと、培養膜10を保持する第二保持部122bと、それぞれ第二筒部122aを径方向に貫通するように設けられた第二側面開口部122c及び第三側面開口部122dと、第二保持部122bを軸方向Xに貫通するように設けられた保持開口部122eと、を有している。 The first holding cylinder 121 has a hollow first cylindrical portion 121a extending cylindrically in the axial direction X, a first holding portion 121b that holds the culture membrane 10, and a first cylindrical portion 121a that radially penetrates the first cylindrical portion 121a. and a first side opening 121c provided. The second holding tube 122 includes a hollow second tube portion 122a extending cylindrically in the axial direction X, a second holding portion 122b that holds the culture membrane 10, and a second holding portion 122b that radially penetrates the second tube portion 122a. a second side opening 122c and a third side opening 122d provided in the second side opening 122c and a holding opening 122e provided so as to pass through the second holding portion 122b in the axial direction X;

第一筒部121aは、軸方向Xに所定長さを有していると共に、径方向に所定厚さを有している。第二筒部122aは、軸方向Xに所定長さを有していると共に、径方向に所定厚さを有している。第一筒部121aの外径と第二筒部122aの内径とは、略一致している。培養膜10の外径(すなわち、支持枠12の外径)は、第一筒部121aの内径を超えかつその外径以下であると共に、第二筒部122aの内径以下である。 The first cylindrical portion 121a has a predetermined length in the axial direction X and a predetermined thickness in the radial direction. The second cylindrical portion 122a has a predetermined length in the axial direction X and a predetermined thickness in the radial direction. The outer diameter of the first cylindrical portion 121a and the inner diameter of the second cylindrical portion 122a are substantially the same. The outer diameter of the culture membrane 10 (that is, the outer diameter of the support frame 12) is greater than the inner diameter of the first tubular portion 121a and equal to or smaller than the outer diameter thereof, and is equal to or smaller than the inner diameter of the second tubular portion 122a.

第一保持部121bは、第一筒部121aにおける第二保持筒122に対向する軸方向端面である。第二保持部122bは、第二筒部122aから径方向内側へ突出するフランジ部である。培養膜10の外径(すなわち、支持枠12の外径)は、第二保持部122bの径方向内端の内径よりも大きい。第二保持部122bは、第二筒部122aの軸方向中間部に位置して設けられている。第一保持筒121は、第一筒部121aが第二保持筒122の第二筒部122aの内側に挿入されると共に第一保持部121bが第二保持部122bに対向した状態で、第二保持筒122に対して係合固定される。これにより、第一保持筒121と第二保持筒122は、培養膜10を挟持して保持する。 The first holding portion 121b is an axial end face facing the second holding tube 122 of the first tubular portion 121a. The second holding portion 122b is a flange portion protruding radially inward from the second tubular portion 122a. The outer diameter of the culture membrane 10 (that is, the outer diameter of the support frame 12) is larger than the inner diameter of the radially inner end of the second holding portion 122b. The second holding portion 122b is provided at an axially intermediate portion of the second tubular portion 122a. The first holding tube 121 is inserted into the second holding tube 122a of the second holding tube 122 and the first holding tube 121b faces the second holding tube 122b. It is engaged and fixed to the holding tube 122 . As a result, the first holding tube 121 and the second holding tube 122 sandwich and hold the culture membrane 10 .

第一側面開口部121cは、第一筒部121aの所定部位を径方向に貫通するように設けられた、その第一筒部121aの内部を外部に連通させるスリット孔部である。第一側面開口部121cは、周方向に一箇所設けられている。第一側面開口部121cが設けられる所定部位は、第一筒部121aが第二筒部122aの下方に位置する状態での細胞培養時に少なくとも第一保持部121bに保持される培養膜10よりも軸方向Xの下方側の箇所を含んでおり、その第一保持部121bから軸方向一方側に延びるように形成されている。第一側面開口部121cは、第一筒部121aが第二筒部122aの下方に位置する状態で第一保持部121bに保持された培養膜10の下面に溜まるエアを外部に放出するエア抜き機能を有している。 The first side opening 121c is a slit hole that radially penetrates through a predetermined portion of the first cylindrical portion 121a and communicates the inside of the first cylindrical portion 121a with the outside. One first side opening 121c is provided in the circumferential direction. The predetermined portion where the first side opening 121c is provided is larger than the culture membrane 10 held by at least the first holding portion 121b during cell culture with the first cylindrical portion 121a positioned below the second cylindrical portion 122a. It includes a portion on the lower side in the axial direction X, and is formed to extend from the first holding portion 121b to one side in the axial direction. The first side opening 121c is an air vent for releasing air accumulated on the lower surface of the culture membrane 10 held by the first holding portion 121b while the first cylindrical portion 121a is positioned below the second cylindrical portion 122a. have a function.

第二側面開口部122c及び第三側面開口部122dはそれぞれ、第二筒部122aの所定部位を径方向に貫通するように設けられた、その第二筒部122aの内部を外部に連通させるスリット孔部である。第二側面開口部122cと第三側面開口部122dとは、第二筒部122aの周方向異なる位置に設けられている。これにより、第二保持筒122の捩じれ剛性を向上させると共にシール性を向上させることができる。 The second side opening portion 122c and the third side opening portion 122d are slits that are provided so as to radially penetrate predetermined portions of the second cylindrical portion 122a and that allow the inside of the second cylindrical portion 122a to communicate with the outside. It is a hole. The second side opening 122c and the third side opening 122d are provided at different positions in the circumferential direction of the second tubular portion 122a. As a result, the torsional rigidity of the second holding cylinder 122 can be improved, and the sealing performance can be improved.

第二側面開口部122cが設けられる所定部位は、第二筒部122aが第一筒部121aの下方に位置する状態での細胞培養時に少なくとも第二保持部122bに保持される培養膜10よりも軸方向Xの下方側の箇所を含んでおり、その第二保持部122bから軸方向他方側に延びるように形成されている。第二側面開口部122cは、第二筒部122aが第一筒部121aの下方に位置する状態で第二保持部122bに保持された培養膜10の下面に溜まるエアを外部に放出するエア抜き機能を有している。 The predetermined portion where the second side opening 122c is provided is at least higher than the culture membrane 10 held by the second holding portion 122b during cell culture in a state where the second cylindrical portion 122a is positioned below the first cylindrical portion 121a. It includes a portion on the lower side in the axial direction X and is formed to extend from the second holding portion 122b to the other side in the axial direction. The second side opening 122c is an air vent for releasing air accumulated on the lower surface of the culture membrane 10 held by the second holding portion 122b while the second cylindrical portion 122a is positioned below the first cylindrical portion 121a. have a function.

第三側面開口部122dが設けられる所定部位は、第一筒部121aが第二筒部122aの下方に位置する状態での細胞培養時に少なくとも第一保持筒121の第一側面開口部121cに径方向で連通すると共に第二保持部122bに保持される培養膜10よりも軸方向Xの下方側の箇所を含んでおり、その第二保持部122bから軸方向一方側に延びるように形成されている。第三側面開口部122dは、第一筒部121aが第二筒部122aの下方に位置する状態で、第一側面開口部121cに連通して、第二保持部122bに保持された培養膜10の下面に溜まるエアを外部に放出するエア抜き機能を有している。 The predetermined portion where the third side opening 122d is provided is at least the diameter of the first side opening 121c of the first holding cylinder 121 during cell culture with the first cylindrical portion 121a positioned below the second cylindrical portion 122a. and includes a portion on the lower side in the axial direction X than the culture membrane 10 held by the second holding portion 122b, and is formed to extend to one side in the axial direction from the second holding portion 122b. there is The third side opening 122d communicates with the first side opening 121c in a state where the first cylindrical portion 121a is positioned below the second cylindrical portion 122a, and the culture membrane 10 held by the second holding portion 122b. It has an air venting function that discharges the air accumulated on the lower surface of the housing to the outside.

保持開口部122eは、第二保持部122bを軸方向Xに貫通するように設けられており、第二側面開口部122cに径方向で連通する。この保持開口部122eは、第二筒部122aが第一筒部121aの下方に位置する状態で、第二側面開口部122cに連通して、第二保持部122bに保持された培養膜10の下面に溜まるエアを外部に放出するエア抜き機能を有している。 The holding opening 122e is provided so as to pass through the second holding portion 122b in the axial direction X, and communicates with the second side opening 122c in the radial direction. The holding opening 122e communicates with the second side opening 122c in a state where the second cylindrical portion 122a is positioned below the first cylindrical portion 121a, and the culture membrane 10 held by the second holding portion 122b is It has an air release function that releases the air accumulated on the bottom surface to the outside.

第一筒部材130及び第二筒部材140はそれぞれ、保持具120に取り付けられる筒状の部材である。第一筒部材130及び第二筒部材140はそれぞれ、樹脂材料やゴムなどにより形成されている。第一筒部材130及び第二筒部材140は、培養膜10への細胞培養時、保持具20に選択的に取り付けられる。すなわち、培養膜10の一方の軸方向端面に一種目の細胞が播種されるときは、第一筒部材130が保持具120に取り付けられ、一方、培養膜10の他方の軸方向端面に二種目の細胞が播種されるときは、第二筒部材140が保持具120に取り付けられる。 The first tubular member 130 and the second tubular member 140 are tubular members attached to the holder 120 respectively. The first cylindrical member 130 and the second cylindrical member 140 are each made of a resin material, rubber, or the like. The first cylindrical member 130 and the second cylindrical member 140 are selectively attached to the holder 20 during cell culture on the culture membrane 10 . That is, when the first type of cells are seeded on one axial end face of the culture membrane 10 , the first cylindrical member 130 is attached to the holder 120 , while the other axial end face of the culture membrane 10 is seeded with the second type of cells. The second tubular member 140 is attached to the holder 120 when the cells are seeded.

第一筒部材130は、軸方向Xに筒状に延びる中空の筒部131を有している。第一筒部材130は、保持具120(具体的には、第一保持筒121)に対して軸方向一方側に装着される。第一筒部材130は、第一保持筒121に対して係脱可能に取り付けられて着脱可能である。第一筒部材130と第一保持筒121とは、互いに係合して固定される構造を有している。保持具120に保持された培養膜10は、第一筒部材130の軸方向開口を通じて軸方向一方側に露出する。 The first tubular member 130 has a hollow tubular portion 131 extending in the axial direction X in a tubular shape. The first cylindrical member 130 is mounted on one side in the axial direction with respect to the holder 120 (specifically, the first holding cylinder 121). The first cylinder member 130 is detachably attached to the first holding cylinder 121 so as to be detachable. The first cylinder member 130 and the first holding cylinder 121 have a structure in which they are engaged with each other and fixed. The culture membrane 10 held by the holder 120 is exposed to one side in the axial direction through the axial opening of the first tubular member 130 .

第一筒部材130は、保持具120の第一保持筒121に挿入可能に形成されている。第一筒部材130は、第一保持筒121の第一筒部121a内に挿入された状態に取り付けられる。第一筒部材130は、その内径が軸方向X全域に亘って不変であるが、その軸方向他方側の外径が軸方向一方側の外径に比して小さくなるように形成されている。その軸方向他方側の外径は、第一保持筒121の内径に一致している。第一筒部材130の筒部131は、第一保持筒121の軸方向他方側に係合固定された状態で第一保持筒121の軸方向一方端よりも軸方向一方側に突出する第一突出部132を有している。 The first cylinder member 130 is formed to be insertable into the first holding cylinder 121 of the holder 120 . The first cylindrical member 130 is attached while being inserted into the first cylindrical portion 121 a of the first holding cylinder 121 . The first cylindrical member 130 has a constant inner diameter throughout the axial direction X, but is formed such that the outer diameter on the other axial side is smaller than the outer diameter on the one axial side. . The outer diameter on the other side in the axial direction matches the inner diameter of the first holding cylinder 121 . A tubular portion 131 of the first tubular member 130 is a first tubular member that protrudes to one axial side from one axial end of the first holding tubular member 121 in a state of being engaged and fixed to the other axial side of the first holding tubular member 121 . It has a protrusion 132 .

第一筒部材130は、第一保持筒121に係合固定された状態で、筒部131における挿入側の軸方向端面が、第一保持筒121と第二保持筒122とに挟持固定される培養膜10の一方の軸方向端面に当接するように、かつ、筒部131におけるその挿入側とは反対側の軸方向端面が、第一保持筒121の軸方向一方端よりも軸方向一方側に突出した位置に配置されるように形成されている。すなわち、第一筒部材130の軸方向Xの長さは、第一保持筒121の第一筒部121aの軸方向Xの長さに比して大きくなるように設定されている。 The first cylindrical member 130 is engaged and fixed to the first holding cylinder 121, and the insertion-side axial end surface of the cylindrical portion 131 is clamped and fixed between the first holding cylinder 121 and the second holding cylinder 122. The axial end face of the cylindrical portion 131 opposite to the insertion side thereof is located on the one axial side of the first holding cylinder 121 so as to abut on one axial end face of the culture membrane 10 . It is formed so as to be arranged at a position protruding to the side. That is, the length in the axial direction X of the first cylindrical member 130 is set to be greater than the length in the axial direction X of the first cylindrical portion 121 a of the first holding cylinder 121 .

また、第二筒部材140は、軸方向Xに筒状に延びる中空の筒部141を有している。第二筒部材140は、保持具120(具体的には、第二保持筒122)に対して軸方向他方側に装着される。第二筒部材140は、第二保持筒122に対して互いに係脱可能に取り付けて着脱可能である。第二筒部材140と第二保持筒122とは、互いに係合して固定される構造を有している。保持具120に保持された培養膜10は、第二筒部材140の軸方向開口を通じて軸方向他方側に露出する。 Further, the second tubular member 140 has a hollow tubular portion 141 extending in the axial direction X in a tubular shape. The second cylindrical member 140 is mounted on the other side in the axial direction with respect to the holder 120 (specifically, the second holding cylinder 122). The second cylinder member 140 is detachably attachable to and detachable from the second holding cylinder 122 . The second cylinder member 140 and the second holding cylinder 122 have a structure in which they are engaged with each other and fixed. The culture membrane 10 held by the holder 120 is exposed to the other side in the axial direction through the axial opening of the second tubular member 140 .

第二筒部材140は、保持具120の第二保持筒122に挿入可能に形成されている。第二筒部材140は、第二保持筒122の第二筒部122a内に挿入された状態に取り付けられる。第二筒部材140は、第二保持筒122の第二筒部122aの内径に一致する外径を有している。第二筒部材140の筒部141は、第二保持筒122に係合固定された状態で第二保持筒122の軸方向他方端よりも軸方向他方側に突出する第二突出部142を有している。 The second cylinder member 140 is formed to be insertable into the second holding cylinder 122 of the holder 120 . The second cylindrical member 140 is attached while being inserted into the second cylindrical portion 122 a of the second holding cylinder 122 . The second cylindrical member 140 has an outer diameter that matches the inner diameter of the second cylindrical portion 122 a of the second holding cylinder 122 . The cylindrical portion 141 of the second cylindrical member 140 has a second projecting portion 142 that projects toward the other axial side from the other axial end of the second holding cylinder 122 while being engaged and fixed to the second holding cylinder 122 . is doing.

第二筒部材140は、第二保持筒122に係合固定された状態で、筒部141における挿入側の軸方向端面が、第一保持筒121と第二保持筒122とに挟持固定される培養膜10の他方の軸方向端面に当接しつつフランジ状の第二保持部122bに当接するように、かつ、筒部141におけるその挿入側とは反対側の軸方向端面が、第二保持筒122の軸方向他方端よりも軸方向他方側に突出した位置に配置されるように形成されている。すなわち、第二筒部材140の軸方向Xの長さは、第二保持筒122の第二筒部122aの軸方向Xの長さに比して大きくなるように設定されている。 The second cylindrical member 140 is engaged and fixed to the second holding cylinder 122, and the insertion-side axial end surface of the cylindrical portion 141 is clamped and fixed between the first holding cylinder 121 and the second holding cylinder 122. The axial end face of the tubular portion 141 on the side opposite to the insertion side of the cylindrical portion 141 is formed into the second holding cylinder so as to contact the other axial end face of the culture membrane 10 and the flange-shaped second holding portion 122b. It is formed so as to be arranged at a position protruding to the other side in the axial direction from the other end in the axial direction of 122 . That is, the length in the axial direction X of the second cylindrical member 140 is set to be larger than the length in the axial direction X of the second cylindrical portion 122 a of the second holding cylinder 122 .

上記構造を有する細胞培養器具100の組み立て手順としては、上記第一実施形態の細胞培養器具1の場合と同様に、まず、培養膜10が保持された保持具120への第一筒部材130の組み付けが行われる。そして、第一突出部132が保持具120の第一保持筒121の軸方向一方端よりも軸方向一方側の外方に突出した状態で、培養膜10の一方の軸方向端面への細胞播種が行われる。その細胞播種が完了すると、保持具120から第一筒部材130が取り外され、その後、保持具120が、培養膜10を保持したまま上下反転される。 As for the procedure for assembling the cell culture device 100 having the structure described above, as in the case of the cell culture device 1 of the first embodiment, first, the first cylindrical member 130 is attached to the holder 120 holding the culture membrane 10. Assembly is done. Then, cells are seeded on one axial end surface of the culture membrane 10 in a state in which the first projecting portion 132 projects outward on one axial side from the one axial end of the first holding cylinder 121 of the holder 120. is done. When the cell dissemination is completed, the first cylindrical member 130 is removed from the holder 120 , and then the holder 120 is turned upside down while holding the culture membrane 10 .

次に、保持具120への第二筒部材140の組み付けが行われる。そして、第二突出部42が保持具20の第二保持筒22の軸方向他方端よりも軸方向他方側の外方に突出した状態で、培養膜10の他方の軸方向端面への細胞播種が行われる。その細胞播種が完了すると、保持具120から第二筒部材140が取り外され、その後、培養膜10の膜体11の顕微鏡観察などが行われる。 Next, the second tubular member 140 is attached to the holder 120 . Then, cells are seeded on the other axial end surface of the culture membrane 10 in a state in which the second projecting portion 42 projects outward on the other axial side from the other axial end of the second holding cylinder 22 of the holder 20. is done. When the cell seeding is completed, the second cylindrical member 140 is removed from the holder 120, and then the membrane body 11 of the culture membrane 10 is observed with a microscope.

このように、細胞培養器具100の構造においても、培養膜10の両面に二種類の細胞を播種して細胞培養を行うことができる。また、培養膜10の両面に二種類の細胞を播種するうえで、細胞培養器具100を、第一筒部材130及び第二筒部材140の双方を同時に装着して用いる必要はなく、第一筒部材130及び第二筒部材140のうち何れか下側に位置するものを取り外した状態で用いることができる。第一筒部材130及び第二筒部材140はそれぞれ、保持具20に係合固定された状態で、突出部32,42にて保持具20の軸方向端よりも軸方向X外側に突出する。このため、細胞培養器具100によれば、細胞培養を行う使用時、軸方向下端から培養膜10が保持される保持部121b,122bまでの寸法距離を短縮することができ、これにより、ウェルの小容量化を図ることができ、少量の培養液で培養膜に細胞を培養することが可能となる。 Thus, in the structure of the cell culture device 100 as well, two types of cells can be seeded on both sides of the culture membrane 10 for cell culture. In addition, when seeding two types of cells on both surfaces of the culture membrane 10, it is not necessary to use the cell culture device 100 with both the first cylindrical member 130 and the second cylindrical member 140 attached at the same time. The member 130 and the second cylindrical member 140 can be used in a state in which the lower one is removed. The first cylindrical member 130 and the second cylindrical member 140 each protrude outward in the axial direction X from the axial end of the holder 20 at the protruding portions 32 and 42 while being engaged and fixed to the holder 20 . Therefore, according to the cell culture device 100, the dimensional distance from the lower end in the axial direction to the holding portions 121b and 122b in which the culture membrane 10 is held can be shortened when used for cell culture. The volume can be reduced, and cells can be cultured on the culture membrane with a small amount of culture solution.

また、細胞培養器具100において、保持具120の第一保持筒121は、第一筒部121aを径方向に貫通する第一側面開口部121cを有している。保持具120の第二保持筒122は、第二筒部122aを径方向に貫通する第二側面開口部122c及び第三側面開口部122dを有すると共に、第二保持部122bを軸方向Xに貫通する保持開口部122eを有している。各側面開口部121c,122c,122dはそれぞれ、培養膜10の両面培養時に保持部121b,122bに保持される培養膜10よりも軸方向Xの下方側の箇所を含む所定部位に設けられている。特に、第三側面開口部122dは、培養膜10の他方の軸方向端面への細胞播種時に、保持部121b,122bに保持される培養膜10の下面を第一側面開口部121cを介して第二保持筒122の外部に露出させるように設けられている。また、保持開口部122eは、培養膜10の一方の軸方向端面への細胞播種時に、保持部121b,122bに保持される培養膜10の下面を第二側面開口部122cを介して第二保持筒122の外部に露出させるように設けられている。このため、培養膜10の両面に溜まるエアを側面開口部121c,122cを介して保持具120の外部へ放出することができる。 In addition, in the cell culture device 100, the first holding cylinder 121 of the holder 120 has a first side opening 121c radially penetrating through the first cylindrical part 121a. The second holding tube 122 of the holding tool 120 has a second side opening 122c and a third side opening 122d that radially penetrate the second tubular portion 122a, and penetrates the second holding portion 122b in the axial direction X. It has a holding opening 122e that Each of the side openings 121c, 122c, and 122d is provided at a predetermined portion including a portion below the culture membrane 10 held by the holding portions 121b and 122b in the axial direction X during double-sided culture of the culture membrane 10. . In particular, the third side opening 122d allows the lower surface of the culture membrane 10 held by the holding portions 121b and 122b to be disseminated through the first side opening 121c when the cells are seeded on the other axial end face of the culture membrane 10. It is provided so as to be exposed to the outside of the second holding cylinder 122 . Further, the holding opening 122e allows the lower surface of the culture membrane 10 held by the holding sections 121b and 122b to be secondly held through the second side opening 122c when the cells are seeded on one axial end surface of the culture membrane 10. It is provided so as to be exposed to the outside of the tube 122 . Therefore, the air accumulated on both surfaces of the culture membrane 10 can be released to the outside of the holder 120 through the side openings 121c and 122c.

尚、上記の第二実施形態においては、第一保持筒121の第一保持部121b及び第二保持筒122の第二保持部122bがそれぞれ、特許請求の範囲に記載した「保持部」に相当している。 In the second embodiment described above, the first holding portion 121b of the first holding cylinder 121 and the second holding portion 122b of the second holding cylinder 122 respectively correspond to the "holding portion" described in the claims. is doing.

ところで、上記の第一及び第二実施形態においては、保持具20,120の筒内に筒部材30,40,130,140が挿入されて配置される細胞培養器具1,100が用いられている。しかしながら、本発明は、これに限定されるものではなく、図9に示す如く、保持具220の筒外に筒部材230,240が挿入されて配置される細胞培養器具200に適用することとしてもよい。 By the way, in the first and second embodiments described above, the cell culture device 1, 100 is used in which the cylindrical members 30, 40, 130, 140 are inserted into the cylinders of the holders 20, 120. . However, the present invention is not limited to this, and as shown in FIG. good.

また、上記の第一及び第二実施形態においては、保持具20を構成する二つの保持筒21,22の双方又は保持具120を構成する二つの保持筒121,122の双方に、培養膜10の下面に溜まるエアを外部に放出する開口部21c,22c,121c,122c,122d,122eが設けられている。しかしながら、本発明は、これに限定されるものではなく、保持具20,120の上下反転後、培養膜10の他方の軸方向端面への細胞播種を行う際に培養膜10の一方の軸方向端面に溜まるエアを保持具20の外部へ放出することだけを目的とする場合は、図9に示す如く、二つの保持筒221,222のうち培養膜10の他方の軸方向端面への細胞播種を行う際に下方に位置する保持筒221に、培養膜10の下面に溜まるエアを外部に放出する開口部221cが設けられていればよい。 In addition, in the first and second embodiments described above, the culture membrane 10 Openings 21c, 22c, 121c, 122c, 122d, and 122e are provided for discharging air accumulated on the lower surface of the housing. However, the present invention is not limited to this. When the purpose is only to release the air accumulated on the end face to the outside of the holder 20, as shown in FIG. It is sufficient that the holding cylinder 221 positioned below when performing the culturing is provided with an opening 221c for discharging the air accumulated on the lower surface of the culture membrane 10 to the outside.

また、上記の第一及び第二実施形態においては、培養膜10が、膜体11と、その膜体11の周縁に接合される環状の支持枠12と、を有するものとした。しかしながら、本発明は、これに限定されるものではなく、支持枠12は、膜体11に接合される枠状の構造を有すれば、例えば軸方向Xから見て十字状や網状に形成されていてもよい。 In the first and second embodiments described above, the culture membrane 10 has the membrane body 11 and the annular support frame 12 joined to the periphery of the membrane body 11 . However, the present invention is not limited to this, and if the support frame 12 has a frame-like structure that is joined to the film body 11, it may be formed in a cross shape or a mesh shape when viewed from the axial direction X, for example. may be

また、上記の第一及び第二実施形態においては、培養膜10が、膜体11と、その膜体11の周縁に接合された支持枠12と、を有するものとした。しかしながら、本発明は、これに限定されるものではなく、図9に示す如く、培養膜210が、支持枠を有さない膜体のみからなるものとしてもよい。この変形形態において、培養膜210は、保持具220の第一保持筒221及び第二保持筒222のうち何れか一方に接合して固定されていてよい。この変形形態において、培養膜210の外径は、第一保持筒221及び第二保持筒222の内径よりも大きくかつその外径以下であればよい。また、この変形形態においては、細胞培養時に第一保持筒221における培養膜210を保持する付近の内外シール性及び第二保持筒222における培養膜210を保持する付近の内外シール性を確保するため、保持筒221,222と筒部材230,240との間の周面がシールされていることが好ましい。 In the first and second embodiments described above, the culture membrane 10 has the membrane body 11 and the support frame 12 joined to the periphery of the membrane body 11 . However, the present invention is not limited to this, and as shown in FIG. 9, the culture membrane 210 may consist only of a membrane body without a support frame. In this modified form, the culture membrane 210 may be joined and fixed to either one of the first holding tube 221 and the second holding tube 222 of the holder 220 . In this modified form, the outer diameter of the culture membrane 210 may be larger than the inner diameters of the first holding cylinder 221 and the second holding cylinder 222 and equal to or smaller than the outer diameters thereof. Moreover, in this modified form, in order to secure the inner/outer sealing property in the vicinity of holding the culture membrane 210 in the first holding cylinder 221 and the inner/outer sealing performance in the vicinity of holding the culture membrane 210 in the second holding cylinder 222 during cell culture. , the peripheral surfaces between the holding cylinders 221 and 222 and the cylinder members 230 and 240 are preferably sealed.

更に、上記の第一及び第二実施形態においては、筒部材30,40,130,140が、保持具20,120への装着時にその挿入側の軸方向端面が培養膜10の支持枠12に当接するように形成される。しかしながら、本発明は、これに限定されるものではなく、筒部材30,40,130,140が、保持具20,120への装着時にその挿入側の軸方向端面が培養膜10の支持枠12に当接していなくてもよい。 Furthermore, in the above-described first and second embodiments, when the cylindrical members 30, 40, 130, 140 are attached to the holders 20, 120, the axial end face on the insertion side thereof contacts the support frame 12 of the culture membrane 10. formed to abut. However, the present invention is not limited to this. It does not have to be in contact with

尚、本発明は、上述した実施形態や変形形態に限定されるものではなく、本発明の趣旨を逸脱しない範囲で種々の変更を施すことが可能である。 The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and modifications, and various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

1,100,200:細胞培養器具、10,210:培養膜、11:膜体、12:支持枠、20,120,220:保持具、21,121,221:第一保持筒、21a,121a:第一筒部、21b,121b:第一保持部、21c,121c,221c:第一側面開口部、22,122,222:第二保持筒、22a,122a:第二筒部、22b,122b:第二保持部、22c,122c:第二側面開口部、30,130,230:第一筒部材、32:第一突出部、40,140,240:第二筒部材、42:第二突出部、122d:第三側面開口部、122e:保持開口部。 1, 100, 200: cell culture device, 10, 210: culture membrane, 11: membrane body, 12: support frame, 20, 120, 220: holder, 21, 121, 221: first holding tube, 21a, 121a : first cylindrical portion 21b, 121b: first holding portion 21c, 121c, 221c: first side opening 22, 122, 222: second holding cylinder 22a, 122a: second cylindrical portion 22b, 122b : second holding portion 22c, 122c: second side opening 30, 130, 230: first cylindrical member 32: first projecting portion 40, 140, 240: second cylindrical member 42: second projecting Section 122d: Third Side Opening 122e: Retaining Opening.

Claims (5)

軸方向に筒状に延びる本体筒部と、前記本体筒部の軸方向中間部に設けられ、培養膜を保持する保持部と、を有する保持具と、
前記保持具に対して軸方向一方側に着脱可能に装着され、軸方向に筒状に延び、前記保持具への装着時に前記保持具の軸方向一方端よりも軸方向一方側に突出する第一筒部材と、
前記保持具に対して軸方向他方側に着脱可能に装着され、軸方向に筒状に延び、前記保持具への装着時に前記保持具の軸方向他方端よりも軸方向他方側に突出する第二筒部材と、
を備え
前記保持具は、
前記培養膜の軸方向一方側の軸方向端面に当接する第一当接部が前記保持部として設けられた筒状の第一保持筒と、
前記第一保持筒に対して係脱可能に取り付けられ、前記培養膜の軸方向他方側の軸方向端面に当接する第二当接部が前記保持部として設けられた筒状の第二保持筒と、
を有する、細胞培養器具。
a holder having a tubular main body portion extending in an axial direction in a tubular shape, and a holding portion provided in an axially intermediate portion of the tubular main body portion and holding a culture membrane;
A second tube which is detachably mounted on one side in the axial direction of the holder, extends in the axial direction in a cylindrical shape, and protrudes to the one side in the axial direction from one end of the holder in the axial direction when mounted on the holder. a tubular member;
The second end is detachably mounted on the other axial side of the holder, extends in the axial direction in a cylindrical shape, and protrudes to the other axial side from the other axial end of the holder when mounted on the holder. a two-cylinder member;
with
The holder is
a cylindrical first holding cylinder provided with a first abutting portion as the holding portion that abuts on one axial end surface of the culture membrane in the axial direction;
A cylindrical second holding cylinder which is detachably attached to the first holding cylinder and provided with a second abutting portion as the holding portion, which abuts on the axial end surface of the culture membrane on the other side in the axial direction. When,
A cell culture instrument.
前記保持具は、前記本体筒部における前記保持部の軸方向少なくとも一方側を含む所定部位を径方向に貫通するように設けられた側面開口部を有する、請求項1に記載された細胞培養器具。 2. The cell culture device according to claim 1, wherein the holder has a side opening that radially penetrates through a predetermined portion of the cylindrical main body including at least one side of the holder in the axial direction. . 前記側面開口部は、
前記保持部の軸方向一方側に軸方向に延びるように形成された第一側面開口部と、
前記保持部の軸方向他方側に軸方向に延びるように形成された第二側面開口部と、
を有する、請求項2に記載された細胞培養器具。
The side opening is
a first side opening formed so as to extend in the axial direction on one axial side of the holding portion;
a second side opening formed to extend in the axial direction on the other axial side of the holding portion;
The cell culture device according to claim 2, comprising:
前記培養膜は、膜体と、前記膜体に接合され、前記膜体よりも硬質な材料により形成された支持枠と、を有する、請求項1乃至の何れか一項に記載された細胞培養器具。 4. The cell according to any one of claims 1 to 3 , wherein the culture membrane comprises a membrane body and a support frame bonded to the membrane body and formed of a material harder than the membrane body. Culture equipment. 請求項1乃至の何れか一項に記載された細胞培養器具を使用する方法であって、
前記培養膜の一方の軸方向端面に細胞が播種される前に、前記第一保持筒の軸方向一方側に前記第一筒部材を装着する第一装着工程と、
前記培養膜の一方の軸方向端面への細胞の播種が行われた後に、前記第一保持筒から前記第一筒部材を取り外す第一取り外し工程と、
前記培養膜の他方の軸方向端面に細胞が播種される前に、前記第二保持筒の軸方向他方側に前記第二筒部材を装着する第二装着工程と、
を備える、細胞培養器具の使用方法。
A method of using the cell culture device according to any one of claims 1 to 4 ,
a first mounting step of mounting the first cylindrical member on one axial side of the first holding cylinder before the cells are seeded on one axial end face of the culture membrane;
a first removing step of removing the first cylinder member from the first holding cylinder after cells are seeded on one axial end face of the culture membrane;
a second mounting step of mounting the second cylindrical member on the other axial side of the second holding cylinder before the cells are seeded on the other axial end surface of the culture membrane;
A method of using a cell culture device, comprising:
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JP2006006136A (en) 2004-06-23 2006-01-12 Teijin Ltd Cell-culturing apparatus
JP2007167002A (en) 2005-12-22 2007-07-05 Asahi Techno Glass Corp Cassette for cell culture, tool for attaching and detaching cassette for cell culture and cell culture apparatus
JP2017029092A (en) 2015-08-04 2017-02-09 豊田合成株式会社 Cell culture tool and method for manufacturing the same

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* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP2006006136A (en) 2004-06-23 2006-01-12 Teijin Ltd Cell-culturing apparatus
JP2007167002A (en) 2005-12-22 2007-07-05 Asahi Techno Glass Corp Cassette for cell culture, tool for attaching and detaching cassette for cell culture and cell culture apparatus
JP2017029092A (en) 2015-08-04 2017-02-09 豊田合成株式会社 Cell culture tool and method for manufacturing the same

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