JP7251265B2 - cell culture equipment - Google Patents

cell culture equipment Download PDF

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JP7251265B2
JP7251265B2 JP2019065126A JP2019065126A JP7251265B2 JP 7251265 B2 JP7251265 B2 JP 7251265B2 JP 2019065126 A JP2019065126 A JP 2019065126A JP 2019065126 A JP2019065126 A JP 2019065126A JP 7251265 B2 JP7251265 B2 JP 7251265B2
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axial direction
cell culture
membrane
culture membrane
cylindrical
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JP2020162457A (en
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真輝 山▲崎▼
康彦 篠田
誠太郎 ▲高▼城
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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に関する。 TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to a cell culture instrument used for culturing cells.

従来、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、軸方向に延びるスリットを有し、このスリットの存在により径方向に弾性変形可能である。内筒は、培養膜を載置する載置部を有していると共に、外筒の内径よりも大きな外径を有している。内筒は、培養膜を載置した状態で、外筒に対して軸方向に相対移動されてその載置側から外筒内に挿入される。この挿入が行われると、外筒が径方向外側へ弾性変形することで内筒と外筒とが互いに径方向で隙間無く接しつつ、培養膜が内筒と外筒との間で挟持されて保持される。 Conventionally, a cell culture instrument for culturing cells 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 slit extending in the axial direction, and is elastically deformable in the radial direction due to the presence of this slit. The inner cylinder has a mounting portion for mounting the culture membrane, and has an outer diameter larger than the inner diameter of the outer cylinder. The inner tube, with the culture membrane placed thereon, is axially moved relative to the outer tube and inserted into the outer tube from the placement side. When this insertion is performed, the outer tube is elastically deformed radially outward, so that the inner tube and the outer tube are in contact with each other in the radial direction without a gap, and the culture membrane is sandwiched between the inner tube and the outer tube. retained.

特開2017-29092号公報JP 2017-29092 A

しかしながら、上記の細胞培養器具では、内筒と外筒との間の培養膜の保持力が、内筒と外筒との間の弾性力である摩擦力に依存する。このため、この細胞培養器具では、上記の弾性力が小さいと、培養時に内筒と外筒との密着性が低下して、組立後に内筒と外筒との軸方向への相対移動が生じ、培養膜を挟んだ両側間でのシール性が低下してしまう。 However, in the cell culture device described above, the holding force of the culture membrane between the inner cylinder and the outer cylinder depends on the frictional force, which is the elastic force between the inner cylinder and the outer cylinder. Therefore, in this cell culture device, if the elastic force is small, the adhesion between the inner cylinder and the outer cylinder decreases during culture, and the inner cylinder and the outer cylinder move relative to each other in the axial direction after assembly. , the sealing performance between both sides of the culture membrane is deteriorated.

本発明は、このような点に鑑みてなされたものであり、培養膜を挟持する二つの部材の組付け状態での密着性を向上させることで、培養膜を挟んだ両側間でのシール性を確保することが可能な細胞培養器具を提供することを目的とする。 The present invention has been made in view of these points, and by improving the adhesiveness in the assembled state of the two members sandwiching the culture membrane, the sealing performance between both sides sandwiching the culture membrane can be improved. An object of the present invention is to provide a cell culture instrument capable of ensuring

本発明の一態様である細胞培養器具は、膜体と、前記膜体に接合された支持枠と、を有する培養膜と、軸方向に筒状に延びる第一筒部と、軸方向に向いた軸方向端面が形成された、前記支持枠に当接して前記培養膜が載置される載置部と、を有する第一部材と、軸方向に筒状に延びる第二筒部と、前記載置部の軸方向端面に軸方向で対向し、前記載置部との間で前記支持枠を挟持する対向部と、を有する第二部材と、を備える細胞培養器具であって、前記第一部材及び前記第二部材は、前記載置部と前記対向部とが前記支持枠を挟持するように互いに組み付けられた状態で互いに離間する軸方向への相対移動を規制する係止部を有する、細胞培養器具である。 A cell culture device, which is one aspect of the present invention, comprises a culture membrane having a membrane body, a support frame joined to the membrane body, a first tubular portion extending in the axial direction, and a a first member having a mounting portion on which the culture membrane is mounted in contact with the support frame, the second cylindrical portion extending cylindrically in the axial direction; a second member having a facing portion that axially faces an axial end face of the placement portion and sandwiches the support frame between itself and the placement portion, The first member and the second member have locking portions that restrict relative movement in the axial direction and separate from each other in a state in which the mounting portion and the opposing portion are assembled together so as to sandwich the support frame. , is a cell culture instrument.

この構成によれば、第一部材の載置部と第二部材の対向部とが培養膜の支持枠を挟持するように互いに組み付けられた状態で、係止部により、第一部材と第二部材との互いに離間する軸方向への相対移動を規制することができる。このため、培養膜を挟持する第一部材と第二部材との組付け状態での密着性を向上させることができ、細胞培養時に培養膜を挟んだ両側間でのシール性を確保することができる。 According to this configuration, in a state in which the mounting portion of the first member and the facing portion of the second member are assembled to each other so as to sandwich the support frame for the culture membrane, the locking portion engages the first member and the second member. Relative movement in the axial direction away from each other with the member can be restricted. Therefore, it is possible to improve the adhesion in the assembled state between the first member and the second member that sandwich the culture membrane, and to ensure the sealing property between both sides sandwiching the culture membrane during cell culture. can.

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側面図(尚、一部は断面図である。)である。1 is a side view (a part of which 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の上面図である。1 is a top view of the cell culture device of the first embodiment; FIG. 第一実施形態の細胞培養器具を図3に示すIV-IVで切断した断面図である。FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the cell culture device of the first embodiment taken along line IV-IV shown in FIG. 3; 第一実施形態の細胞培養器具が備える第一部材及び第二部材の係止部を説明するための図である。FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining locking portions of the first member and the second member provided in the cell culture device of the first embodiment; 一変形形態に係る細胞培養器具が備える第一部材及び第二部材の係止部を説明するための図である。FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining locking portions of a first member and a second member provided in a cell culture device according to a modification; 第二実施形態に係る細胞培養器具の側面図(左半分)及び断面図(右半分)である。It is a side view (left half) and a cross-sectional view (right half) of the cell culture device according to the second embodiment. 第三実施形態に係る細胞培養器具が備える第一部材及び第二部材の係止部の係止前の状態を表した図である。FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state before locking of the locking portions of the first member and the second member provided in the cell culture device according to the third embodiment. 第三実施形態に係る細胞培養器具が備える第一部材及び第二部材の係止部の係止後の状態を表した図である。FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state after locking of the locking portions of the first member and the second member provided in the cell culture device according to the third embodiment.

以下、本発明に係る細胞培養器具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 the cell culture device 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、図2、図3、及び図4に示す如く、培養膜10と、第一部材20と、第二部材30と、を備えている。細胞培養器具1は、培養膜10を第一部材20と第二部材30とで挟持して固定する。
[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 first member 20, and a second member 30, as shown in FIGS. The cell culture device 1 sandwiches and fixes the culture membrane 10 between the first member 20 and the second member 30 .

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.

第一部材20は、培養膜10を挟持固定するための基材である。第一部材20は、筒状に形成された部材である。第一部材20は、樹脂材料やゴムなどにより形成されている。第一部材20は、第一筒部21と、載置部22と、側面開口部23と、を有している。第一筒部21と載置部22とは、互いに一体で形成されている。 The first member 20 is a substrate for sandwiching and fixing the culture membrane 10 . The first member 20 is a tubular member. The first member 20 is made of a resin material, rubber, or the like. The first member 20 has a first tubular portion 21 , a mounting portion 22 and a side opening portion 23 . The first cylindrical portion 21 and the mounting portion 22 are integrally formed with each other.

第一筒部21は、軸方向Xに筒状に延びる中空部位である。第一筒部21は、例えば円筒状に形成されている。尚、第一筒部21の内径は、軸方向Xの位置に拘わらず一定であってもよいが、軸方向Xの位置に応じて変化する(具体的には、載置部22から遠い軸方向Xの位置ほど大きくなる)こととしてもよい。第一筒部21は、周壁部21aを有している。周壁部21aの内周面は、培養膜10を軸方向Xに載置部22まで案内可能に形成されている。 The first tubular portion 21 is a hollow portion extending in the axial direction X in a tubular shape. The first tubular portion 21 is formed, for example, in a cylindrical shape. Note that the inner diameter of the first cylindrical portion 21 may be constant regardless of the position in the axial direction X, but it changes according to the position in the axial direction X The position in the direction X may be larger). The first tubular portion 21 has a peripheral wall portion 21a. The inner peripheral surface of the peripheral wall portion 21 a is formed so as to be able to guide the culture membrane 10 in the axial direction X to the mounting portion 22 .

周壁部21aは、切欠部21bを有している。切欠部21bは、周壁部21aを径方向に貫通しかつ軸方向Xに延びるように設けられている。切欠部21bは、第一筒部21における培養膜10を第一部材20に対して軸方向Xに挿入する軸方向端部から載置部22が設けられた部位にかけて軸方向Xに延びている。切欠部21bは、周壁部21aの周方向一部に設けられ、周壁部21aに一箇所設けられている。切欠部21bは、第一部材20と第二部材30とで挟持する培養膜10を載置部22に着脱させるための治具を径方向外方から挿入させるためのスリットである。すなわち、切欠部21bは、第一部材20に対して径方向外方から挿入した治具を軸方向Xに移動可能とする機能を有している。 The peripheral wall portion 21a has a notch portion 21b. The cutout portion 21b is provided so as to penetrate the peripheral wall portion 21a in the radial direction and extend in the axial direction X. As shown in FIG. The notch portion 21b extends in the axial direction X from the axial end portion of the first cylindrical portion 21 where the culture membrane 10 is inserted in the axial direction X with respect to the first member 20 to the portion where the mounting portion 22 is provided. . The cutout portion 21b is provided in a portion of the peripheral wall portion 21a in the circumferential direction, and is provided at one location on the peripheral wall portion 21a. The notch portion 21b is a slit for inserting a jig for attaching/detaching the culture membrane 10 sandwiched between the first member 20 and the second member 30 to/from the mounting portion 22 from the radial direction outside. That is, the notch portion 21b has a function of allowing the jig inserted from the radially outward direction into the first member 20 to move in the axial direction X. As shown in FIG.

載置部22は、培養膜10が載置される部位である。載置部22は、第一筒部21の軸方向一端に接続されている。載置部22は、第一筒部21の軸方向一端の内周側に環状に形成されている。尚、載置部22は、第一筒部21の軸方向一端の内周側に周方向に断続的に設けられていてもよい。載置部22は、軸方向Xに向いた軸方向端面が形成された壁部22aと、壁部22aの中央部に円形に開いた孔部22bと、を有している。載置部22は、壁部22aにおける内側の軸方向端面にて培養膜10の支持枠12に当接してその培養膜10を保持する。載置部22の壁部22aに保持された培養膜10は、載置部22の孔部22bを通じて外部に露出する。 The mounting portion 22 is a portion on which the culture membrane 10 is mounted. The mounting portion 22 is connected to one axial end of the first cylindrical portion 21 . The mounting portion 22 is annularly formed on the inner peripheral side of one axial end of the first tubular portion 21 . In addition, the mounting portion 22 may be provided intermittently in the circumferential direction on the inner peripheral side of one axial end of the first tubular portion 21 . The mounting portion 22 has a wall portion 22a formed with an axial end face facing the axial direction X, and a hole portion 22b having a circular opening in the central portion of the wall portion 22a. The mounting portion 22 holds the culture membrane 10 by contacting the support frame 12 of the culture membrane 10 at the inner axial end surface of the wall portion 22a. The culture membrane 10 held on the wall portion 22 a of the mounting portion 22 is exposed to the outside through the hole portion 22 b of the mounting portion 22 .

側面開口部23は、第一筒部21の周壁部21aを径方向に貫通するように設けられている。側面開口部23は、第一筒部21の内部を外部に連通させる孔部である。側面開口部23は、周壁部21aの周方向一部に設けられ、周壁部21aの所定部位に一箇所設けられている。この側面開口部23が設けられる所定部位は、少なくとも載置部22に載置された培養膜10よりも軸方向Xの載置部22側の箇所を含んでいる。側面開口部23は、載置部22に載置された培養膜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。側面開口部23は、第一部材20における、上記の切欠部21bと周方向同じ位置に設けられている。側面開口部23は、その切欠部21bに対して軸方向Xに連続して配置されており、その切欠部21bに一体化されている。 The side opening 23 is provided so as to penetrate the peripheral wall portion 21a of the first cylindrical portion 21 in the radial direction. The side opening 23 is a hole that communicates the inside of the first cylindrical portion 21 with the outside. The side opening 23 is provided in a portion of the peripheral wall portion 21a in the circumferential direction, and is provided at one location at a predetermined portion of the peripheral wall portion 21a. The predetermined portion where the side opening 23 is provided includes at least a portion closer to the mounting portion 22 in the axial direction X than the culture membrane 10 mounted on the mounting portion 22 . The side opening 23 has an air venting function to release air accumulated on the lower surface of the culture membrane 10 placed on the placement part 22 to the outside. The side opening 23 is provided in the first member 20 at the same position as the notch 21b in the circumferential direction. The side opening 23 is arranged continuously in the axial direction X with respect to the notch 21b and is integrated with the notch 21b.

第二部材30は、第一部材20と対をなす、培養膜10を挟持固定するための基材である。第二部材30は、筒状に形成された部材である。第二部材30は、第一部材20の第一筒部21内に挿入されて配置される。第二部材30は、樹脂材料やゴムなどにより形成されている。第二部材30は、第二筒部31と、対向部32と、把持部33と、を有している。第二筒部31と対向部32と把持部33とは、互いに一体で形成されている。 The second member 30 is a base material that forms a pair with the first member 20 and holds and fixes the culture membrane 10 . The second member 30 is a tubular member. The second member 30 is arranged by being inserted into the first cylindrical portion 21 of the first member 20 . The second member 30 is made of a resin material, rubber, or the like. The second member 30 has a second tubular portion 31 , a facing portion 32 and a grip portion 33 . The second cylindrical portion 31, the facing portion 32, and the grip portion 33 are integrally formed with each other.

第二筒部31は、軸方向Xに筒状に延びる中空部位である。第二筒部31は、例えば円筒状に形成されている。第二筒部31の外径は、第一部材20の第一筒部21の内径に略一致する大きさを有している。尚、第二筒部31の内径又は外径は、軸方向Xの位置に拘わらず一定であってもよいが、軸方向Xの位置に応じて変化する(具体的には、載置部22から遠い軸方向Xの位置ほど大きくなる)こととしてもよい。 The second cylindrical portion 31 is a hollow portion extending in the axial direction X in a cylindrical shape. The second cylindrical portion 31 is formed, for example, in a cylindrical shape. The outer diameter of the second cylindrical portion 31 has a size that substantially matches the inner diameter of the first cylindrical portion 21 of the first member 20 . Note that the inner diameter or the outer diameter of the second cylindrical portion 31 may be constant regardless of the position in the axial direction X, but changes according to the position in the axial direction X (specifically, the placement portion 22 may be increased as the position in the axial direction X farther from .

対向部32は、第一部材20の載置部22の壁部22aに軸方向Xで対向する部位である。対向部32は、第一部材20の載置部22との間で培養膜10を挟持する機能を有している。対向部32は、第二筒部31の軸方向一端に接続されている。対向部32は、第二筒部31の軸方向一端の内周側に環状に形成されている。尚、対向部32は、第二筒部31の軸方向一端の内周側に周方向に断続的に設けられていてもよい。 The facing portion 32 is a portion that faces the wall portion 22a of the mounting portion 22 of the first member 20 in the axial direction X. As shown in FIG. The facing portion 32 has a function of sandwiching the culture membrane 10 with the mounting portion 22 of the first member 20 . The facing portion 32 is connected to one axial end of the second tubular portion 31 . The opposing portion 32 is annularly formed on the inner peripheral side of one axial end of the second cylindrical portion 31 . The facing portion 32 may be provided intermittently in the circumferential direction on the inner peripheral side of one axial end of the second tubular portion 31 .

対向部32は、軸方向Xに向いた軸方向端面が形成された壁部32aと、壁部32aの中央部に円形に開いた孔部32bと、を有している。対向部32は、壁部32aにおける外側の軸方向端面にて培養膜10の支持枠12に当接してその培養膜10を保持する。載置部22と対向部32との間に挟持された培養膜10は、対向部32の孔部32bを通じて第二筒部31の内側空間に露出する。 The opposing portion 32 has a wall portion 32a formed with an axial end face facing the axial direction X, and a hole portion 32b having a circular opening in the central portion of the wall portion 32a. The opposing portion 32 holds the culture membrane 10 in contact with the support frame 12 of the culture membrane 10 at the outer axial end surface of the wall portion 32a. The culture membrane 10 sandwiched between the mounting portion 22 and the facing portion 32 is exposed to the inner space of the second cylindrical portion 31 through the hole portion 32 b of the facing portion 32 .

把持部33は、人がピンセットなどの治具で第二部材30を第一部材20に組み付ける際にその第二部材30を取り扱い易くするための機能を有している。把持部33は、アーム部33aと、接続部33bと、を有している。アーム部33aは、複数本(例えば三本)設けられている。各アーム部33aの一端は、第二筒部31における対向部32とは軸方向反対側の軸方向他端に接続されている。アーム部33aは、第二筒部31の周方向に間隔を空けて配置されている。アーム部33aは、第二筒部31の軸方向他端から軸方向Xの外方へ延びている。接続部33bは、複数本のアーム部33aの他端を繋ぐように環状に形成されている。接続部33bは、周方向一部で切り欠かれており、C字状に形成されている。 The grip portion 33 has a function of facilitating handling of the second member 30 when a person assembles the second member 30 to the first member 20 with a jig such as tweezers. The grasping portion 33 has an arm portion 33a and a connecting portion 33b. A plurality of (for example, three) arm portions 33a are provided. One end of each arm portion 33 a is connected to the other axial end of the second tubular portion 31 on the opposite side of the facing portion 32 in the axial direction. The arm portions 33a are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction of the second tubular portion 31 . The arm portion 33 a extends outward in the axial direction X from the other axial end of the second tubular portion 31 . The connection portion 33b is formed in an annular shape so as to connect the other ends of the plurality of arm portions 33a. The connection portion 33b is partially cut out in the circumferential direction and formed in a C shape.

第一部材20及び第二部材30は、互いの組付け状態で互いに離間する軸方向Xへの相対移動を規制する係止部を有している。すなわち、第一部材20は、係止部としての凹部25を有していると共に、第二部材30は、係止部としての凸部35を有している。凹部25及び凸部35は、図5に示す如く、第一部材20及び第二部材30の組付け状態で互いに離間する軸方向Xへの相対移動を規制する。 The first member 20 and the second member 30 have locking portions that restrict relative movement in the axial direction X to separate from each other in the assembled state. That is, the first member 20 has a concave portion 25 as a locking portion, and the second member 30 has a convex portion 35 as a locking portion. As shown in FIG. 5, the concave portion 25 and the convex portion 35 restrict relative movement in the axial direction X to separate from each other when the first member 20 and the second member 30 are assembled.

第一部材20の凹部25は、第一筒部21の周壁部21aの内面に径方向外側へ向けて凹んで設けられた溝部である。凹部25は、例えば第一部材20の周方向二箇所(例えば180°異なる位置)に設けられている。凹部25は、L字状に形成されている。すなわち、凹部25は、軸方向Xに延びる軸平行部25aと、軸方向Xに対して直交する方向に延びる直交部25bと、を有している。軸平行部25a及び直交部25bはそれぞれ、第二部材30の凸部35の幅以上の幅を有している。軸平行部25aは、第一筒部21における載置部22とは軸方向反対側の軸方向他端から軸方向一端側へ向けて延びている。直交部25bは、軸平行部25aにおける軸方向一端部に接続されて、直交方向に延びている。直交部25bは、軸方向他端側に上記の第二部材30の凸部35が係止される係止壁26を形成している。 The recessed portion 25 of the first member 20 is a groove portion that is recessed radially outward in the inner surface of the peripheral wall portion 21a of the first cylindrical portion 21 . The recessed portions 25 are provided, for example, at two locations in the circumferential direction of the first member 20 (eg, at 180° different locations). The recess 25 is formed in an L shape. That is, the concave portion 25 has an axis-parallel portion 25a extending in the axial direction X and an orthogonal portion 25b extending in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction X. As shown in FIG. The axis-parallel portion 25 a and the orthogonal portion 25 b each have a width equal to or greater than the width of the convex portion 35 of the second member 30 . The axially parallel portion 25a extends from the axially opposite end of the first cylindrical portion 21 to the mounting portion 22 toward the axially one end side. The orthogonal portion 25b is connected to one axial end of the axis-parallel portion 25a and extends in the orthogonal direction. The orthogonal portion 25b forms a locking wall 26 on the other end side in the axial direction to which the convex portion 35 of the second member 30 is locked.

第二部材30の凸部35は、第二筒部31の外面に径方向外側へ向けて突起して設けられた突起部である。凸部35は、例えば第二部材30の周方向二箇所(例えば180°異なる位置)に設けられている。凸部35は、凹部25(特に直交部25b)に対応した大きさに形成されている。具体的には、凸部35は、凹部25の直交部25bの幅(すなわち軸方向長さ)に対応した幅(すなわち軸方向長さ)を有している。 The convex portion 35 of the second member 30 is a protruding portion provided on the outer surface of the second tubular portion 31 so as to protrude radially outward. The protrusions 35 are provided, for example, at two locations in the circumferential direction of the second member 30 (for example, at 180° different locations). The convex portion 35 is formed to have a size corresponding to the concave portion 25 (especially the orthogonal portion 25b). Specifically, the convex portion 35 has a width (that is, axial length) corresponding to the width (that is, axial length) of the orthogonal portion 25 b of the concave portion 25 .

尚、凹部25の直交部25bの幅は、周方向位置に応じて変化するものであってよい。例えば、その幅は、図6に示す如く、第一部材20と第二部材30との組付け時に凸部35が直交部25bにおける軸平行部25aに近い側から遠い奥側まで移動し易いように軸平行部25aに近い側で最も広く、軸平行部25aから遠い奥側にかけて徐々に狭くなっていてよい。また、その幅は、凸部35が直交部25bの奥側の所定箇所に嵌った後にその所定箇所から軸平行部25aに近い側へ移動し難くなるように、その所定箇所が最小幅の箇所よりも軸平行部25aから遠い奥側に位置してその所定箇所の幅が最小幅よりも広くなっていてもよい。 The width of the orthogonal portion 25b of the concave portion 25 may vary depending on the position in the circumferential direction. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the width is such that when the first member 20 and the second member 30 are assembled, the convex portion 35 can easily move from the side near the axis-parallel portion 25a of the orthogonal portion 25b to the far side farther. It may be widest on the side near the axis-parallel portion 25a and gradually narrow toward the far side from the axis-parallel portion 25a. In addition, the width of the projection 35 is set at a position where the predetermined position has the minimum width so that after the projection 35 is fitted in the predetermined position on the far side of the orthogonal portion 25b, it is difficult for the projection 35 to move from the predetermined position to the side near the axis-parallel portion 25a. The width of the predetermined portion may be wider than the minimum width, positioned on the far side farther from the axis-parallel portion 25a.

第一部材20と第二部材30との組み付けは、凸部35が凹部25に沿って移動するように行われる。凸部35は、凹部25の先端側付近に嵌って係止壁26に係止されることが可能である。第一部材20と第二部材30とは、凸部35が凹部25に嵌って係止壁26に係止されることにより、互いに組み付けられた状態になり、互いに離間する軸方向Xへの相対移動が規制されることとなる。 The assembly of the first member 20 and the second member 30 is performed so that the convex portion 35 moves along the concave portion 25 . The protrusion 35 can be fitted near the tip end of the recess 25 and locked to the locking wall 26 . The first member 20 and the second member 30 are assembled to each other by fitting the projections 35 into the recesses 25 and being locked by the locking walls 26, and are separated from each other in the axial direction X. Movement will be restricted.

尚、凸部35が凹部25に嵌ることにより第一部材20と第二部材30との組み付けが完了した状態では、載置部22と対向部32との軸方向Xに離間する距離は、培養膜10の支持枠12における組み付け前の厚さよりも小さくなるように設定されている。これにより、組み付け完了状態では、培養膜10が第一部材20の載置部22と第二部材30の対向部32とに挟持される。 In addition, in a state in which the first member 20 and the second member 30 are assembled by fitting the convex portion 35 into the concave portion 25, the distance between the mounting portion 22 and the facing portion 32 in the axial direction X is It is set to be smaller than the thickness of the membrane 10 in the support frame 12 before assembly. As a result, the culture membrane 10 is sandwiched between the mounting portion 22 of the first member 20 and the facing portion 32 of the second member 30 in the assembled state.

次に、細胞培養器具1の組み立てについて説明する。 Next, assembly of the cell culture instrument 1 will be described.

細胞培養器具1の構成部品である培養膜10、第一部材20、及び第二部材30を用意する。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、第一部材20への培養膜10の組み付けが行われる。第一部材20への培養膜10の組み付けは、治具で培養膜10を把持したうえで、その培養膜10を第一部材20に対してその第一部材20における載置部22とは軸方向反対側から軸方向Xへ移動させて挿入し、その培養膜10を第一部材20の載置部22の軸方向端面に当接させて載置することにより実現される。尚、上記した第一部材20への培養膜10の組み付けは、第一部材20を載置部22側の軸方向端部が下方に位置するようにセットした状態で行われることとすればよい。 A culture membrane 10, a first member 20, and a second member 30, which are components of the cell culture device 1, are prepared. Assembly of the cell culture instrument 1 is performed manually by a person using a jig such as tweezers. As this assembly procedure, first, the culture membrane 10 is assembled to the first member 20 . The culture membrane 10 is attached to the first member 20 by gripping the culture membrane 10 with a jig, and then placing the culture membrane 10 on the first member 20 so that the mounting portion 22 of the first member 20 is not an axis. It is realized by moving and inserting the culture membrane 10 from the direction opposite side in the axial direction X, and placing the culture membrane 10 in contact with the axial end face of the placing portion 22 of the first member 20 . The assembly of the culture membrane 10 to the first member 20 may be performed with the first member 20 set so that the axial end on the mounting portion 22 side is positioned downward. .

次に、上記の如く載置部22に培養膜10が載置された第一部材20への第二部材30の組み付けが行われる。この組み付けは、まず、治具で第二部材30の把持部33を把持したうえで、その第二部材30を第一部材20に対してその第一部材20における載置部22とは軸方向反対側から軸方向Xの互いに近づく方向へ移動させて挿入し、第二部材30の凸部35を第一部材20の凹部25の軸平行部25aに沿って移動させ、その後、第二部材30を第一部材20に対して周方向一方へ移動させ、第二部材30の凸部35を第一部材20の凹部25の直交部25bに沿って移動させることにより実現される。尚、上記した第一部材20への第二部材30の組み付けは、第一部材20を載置部22側の軸方向端部が下方に位置するようにセットした状態で第二部材30をその第一部材20の上方から挿入するものとすればよい。 Next, the second member 30 is assembled to the first member 20 on which the culture membrane 10 is mounted on the mounting portion 22 as described above. For this assembly, first, the grip portion 33 of the second member 30 is gripped by a jig, and then the second member 30 is attached to the first member 20 in the axial direction of the mounting portion 22 of the first member 20. They are moved toward each other in the axial direction X from the opposite side and inserted to move the convex portion 35 of the second member 30 along the axis-parallel portion 25a of the concave portion 25 of the first member 20, and then the second member 30 is moved in one circumferential direction with respect to the first member 20 , and the convex portion 35 of the second member 30 is moved along the orthogonal portion 25 b of the concave portion 25 of the first member 20 . The second member 30 is attached to the first member 20 as described above, with the first member 20 set so that the axial end on the mounting portion 22 side is positioned downward, and then the second member 30 is attached. The first member 20 may be inserted from above.

上記の移動が行われて、第二部材30の凸部35が第一部材20の凹部25の先端側付近に嵌ると、両部材20,30の軸方向Xの互いに離間する方向への相対移動が規制されると共に両部材20,30が互いに装着されて、両部材20,30の組み付けが完了する。両部材20,30の組み付けが完了すると、載置部22と対向部32とがその間で培養膜10(具体的には、支持枠12)を挟持すると共に、第二部材30の凸部35が第一部材20の凹部25の係止壁26に係止される。 When the above-described movement is performed and the convex portion 35 of the second member 30 is fitted near the distal end side of the concave portion 25 of the first member 20, the two members 20 and 30 are moved relative to each other in the direction X in the axial direction so as to separate from each other. are regulated and the two members 20 and 30 are attached to each other, completing the assembly of the two members 20 and 30. As shown in FIG. When the assembly of both members 20 and 30 is completed, the culture membrane 10 (specifically, the support frame 12) is sandwiched between the mounting portion 22 and the facing portion 32, and the convex portion 35 of the second member 30 is It is locked to the locking wall 26 of the concave portion 25 of the first member 20 .

この細胞培養器具1の構造によれば、第一部材20及び第二部材30の組付後、第一部材20及び第二部材30により培養膜10の支持枠12を挟持した状態で、その第一部材20と第二部材30との軸方向Xへの相対移動を、係止部としての凹部25及び凸部35により規制することができる。このため、培養膜10を挟持する第一部材20と第二部材30との組付け状態での密着性を向上させることができ、細胞培養時に培養膜10を挟んだ両側間でのシール性を確保することができる。尚、側面開口部23に位置する培養膜10は、第一部材20及び第二部材30に挟持されていないが、その領域は狭いため、支持枠12と第二部材30の弾性押圧力のみでシールされている。 According to the structure of the cell culture device 1, after the first member 20 and the second member 30 are assembled, the support frame 12 for the culture membrane 10 is sandwiched between the first member 20 and the second member 30. Relative movement in the axial direction X between the one member 20 and the second member 30 can be restricted by the concave portion 25 and the convex portion 35 as locking portions. Therefore, the adhesion between the first member 20 and the second member 30 sandwiching the culture membrane 10 can be improved in the assembled state, and the sealing property between both sides sandwiching the culture membrane 10 during cell culture can be improved. can be secured. The culture membrane 10 located in the side opening 23 is not sandwiched between the first member 20 and the second member 30, but because the area is narrow, the elastic pressing force of the support frame 12 and the second member 30 alone can be sufficient to hold the culture membrane 10. Sealed.

上記の如く第一部材20と第二部材30との組み付けが完了すると、その後、培養膜10の一方の面への細胞培養が行われる。細胞培養は、細胞培養器具1を細胞培養用のプレートのウェル内に入れて培養液で満たせばよい。上記の培養膜10の一方の面への細胞培養は、まず、培養膜10の第二部材30側の一方の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面側の空間に対して一種目の細胞を供給することにより行われる。 After the assembly of the first member 20 and the second member 30 is completed as described above, cell culture on one surface of the culture membrane 10 is performed. For cell culture, the cell culture device 1 is placed in the wells of a plate for cell culture and the wells are filled with a culture solution. For cell culture on one surface of the culture membrane 10, first, the cell culture device 1 is immersed in a culture solution so that one surface of the culture membrane 10 on the side of the second member 30 faces vertically upward. It is performed by supplying the first type of cells to the space on one side of the state.

上記の如く、一種目の細胞の培養が完了すると、次に、細胞培養器具1の第一部材20と第二部材30との組み付けが解除され、培養膜10が上下反転されて、再度、第一部材20と第二部材30とが組み付けられる。第一部材20と第二部材30との組み付けの解除は、上記した組む付けの手順とは逆の手順で行われる。具体的には、その組み付け解除は、まず、第二部材30を第一部材20に対して周方向他方へ移動させ、その後、第二部材30を第一部材20に対して軸方向Xの互いに離間する方向へ移動させることにより実現される。この組み付けが解除されると、次に、培養膜10が、第一部材20の載置部22に載置された状態から治具で軸方向Xへ移動され、その後に上下反転されて、再度、その載置部22の軸方向端面に当接されて載置される。そして、上記の如く、その載置部22に培養膜10が載置された第一部材20への第二部材30の組み付けが行われる。 As described above, when the first cell culture is completed, the assembly of the first member 20 and the second member 30 of the cell culture device 1 is released, the culture membrane 10 is turned upside down, and the first The first member 20 and the second member 30 are assembled. The disassembly of the first member 20 and the second member 30 is performed in reverse order to the above-described assembling procedure. Specifically, the disassembly is performed by first moving the second member 30 in the other circumferential direction relative to the first member 20, and then moving the second member 30 relative to the first member 20 in the axial direction X. It is realized by moving in the direction of separation. When this assembly is released, next, the culture membrane 10 is moved in the axial direction X by a jig from the state placed on the placement portion 22 of the first member 20, then turned upside down, and again. , is placed in contact with the axial end face of the placing portion 22 thereof. Then, as described above, the second member 30 is assembled to the first member 20 with the culture membrane 10 mounted on the mounting portion 22 .

上記の組み付けが完了すると、載置部22と対向部32とがその間で培養膜10を挟持すると共に、第二部材30の凸部35が第一部材20の凹部25の係止壁26に係止されるので、上記の効果と同様の効果を得ることができる。また、この組み付けが完了すると、その後、培養膜10の他方の面への細胞培養が行われる。この培養膜10の他方の面への細胞培養は、まず、培養膜10の第二部材30側の他方の面が鉛直上方を向いた状態で細胞培養器具1を培養液中に浸漬し、その状態でその他方の面側の空間に対して二種目の細胞を供給することにより行われる。 When the above assembly is completed, the culture membrane 10 is sandwiched between the placing portion 22 and the facing portion 32, and the convex portion 35 of the second member 30 is engaged with the locking wall 26 of the concave portion 25 of the first member 20. Since it is stopped, the same effect as the above effect can be obtained. After this assembly is completed, cell culture on the other surface of the culture membrane 10 is performed. In the cell culture on the other surface of the culture membrane 10, first, the cell culture device 1 is immersed in the culture solution with the other surface of the culture membrane 10 on the side of the second member 30 facing vertically upward. This is done by supplying the second type of cells to the space on the other side in the state.

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培養することができる。また、培養膜10の両面に二種類の細胞を培養するうえで、培養膜10の片面での細胞の培養後、第一部材20と第二部材30との組み付け解除後に培養膜10自体を上下反転させることとすればよく、第一部材20及び第二部材30自体を上下反転させることは不要である。このため、培養膜10の両面に二種類の細胞を培養するうえでの作業性を向上させることができる。 Thus, according to the structure of the cell culture device 1 , two types of cells can be cultured on both sides of the culture membrane 10 . In culturing two types of cells on both sides of the culture membrane 10, after the cells are cultured on one side of the culture membrane 10, the culture membrane 10 itself is moved up and down after the first member 20 and the second member 30 are disassembled. The first member 20 and the second member 30 themselves need not be turned upside down. Therefore, workability in culturing two types of cells on both sides of the culture membrane 10 can be improved.

また、培養膜10の両面に二種類の細胞を培養するうえで、培養膜10の上下反転を考慮して細胞培養器具を上下対称構造とすることは不要である。このため、第一部材20における載置部22に載置される培養膜10よりも軸方向Xの載置部22側の構造を簡略化して、細胞培養器具1の小型化を図ることができ、細胞培養を実現するうえでウェルの小型化や培養液の少量化を図ることができる。更に、培養膜10を独立して第一部材20及び第二部材30から取り外すことができるので、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、培養膜と保持部材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。 In addition, when two types of cells are cultured on both sides of the culture membrane 10, it is unnecessary to make the cell culture device vertically symmetrical in consideration of the upside-down inversion of the culture membrane 10. FIG. Therefore, the structure of the first member 20 on the mounting portion 22 side in the axial direction X relative to the culture membrane 10 mounted on the mounting portion 22 can be simplified, and the size of the cell culture device 1 can be reduced. In addition, it is possible to reduce the size of wells and the amount of culture medium in order to realize cell culture. Furthermore, since the culture membrane 10 can be independently removed from the first member 20 and the second member 30, the culture membrane 10 after cell culture can be independently evaluated such as by microscopic observation. The evaluation can be performed easily and appropriately as compared with the structure in which the holding member and the holding member are integrated.

また、細胞培養器具1において、第一部材20は、第一筒部21にて周壁部21aを径方向に貫通しかつ軸方向Xに延びる切欠部21bを有している。この切欠部21bは、第一部材20の径方向外方からピンセットなどの治具を挿入させて軸方向Xに移動させるためのスリットである。培養膜10は、第一部材20の載置部22に載置されて第一部材20と第二部材30とで挟持されるが、その載置部22への着脱作業のために、切欠部21bから挿入されたピンセットなどの治具で把持されることが可能である。このため、治具を用いた第一部材20の載置部22への培養膜10の着脱を容易に行うことができると共に、培養膜10の両面への細胞培養を実現するうえで細胞培養器具1として多くの部品を用意することは不要であり、最小限の構成で培養膜10の両面への細胞培養を行うことができる。 In addition, in the cell culture device 1, the first member 20 has a notch portion 21b that radially penetrates the peripheral wall portion 21a of the first cylindrical portion 21 and extends in the axial direction X. As shown in FIG. This notch portion 21b is a slit for inserting a jig such as tweezers from the radially outer side of the first member 20 and moving it in the axial direction X. As shown in FIG. The culture membrane 10 is mounted on the mounting portion 22 of the first member 20 and sandwiched between the first member 20 and the second member 30. However, for attaching/detaching the culture membrane 10 to/from the mounting portion 22, the notch portion It can be held by a jig such as tweezers inserted from 21b. Therefore, the culture membrane 10 can be easily attached to and detached from the mounting portion 22 of the first member 20 using a jig. It is not necessary to prepare many parts as 1, and cell culture can be performed on both sides of the culture membrane 10 with a minimum configuration.

第一部材20は、また、第一筒部21にて周壁部21aを径方向に貫通する側面開口部23を有している。この側面開口部23は、周壁部21aにおける少なくとも載置部22に載置された培養膜10よりも軸方向Xの載置部22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の一方の面への一種目の細胞の培養後、その培養膜10を上下反転させて他方の面への二種目の細胞の培養を行う際、一種目の細胞が培養されている面に溜まるエアを側面開口部23を介して第一部材20の外部へ放出することができるので、最初に播種される一種目の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、一種目の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。 The first member 20 also has a side opening 23 radially penetrating the peripheral wall portion 21a at the first tubular portion 21 . The side opening 23 is provided at a predetermined portion of the peripheral wall portion 21a including at least a portion on the mounting portion 22 side in the axial direction X with respect to the culture membrane 10 mounted on the mounting portion 22 . Therefore, after culturing the first type of cells on one surface of the culture membrane 10, when the culture membrane 10 is turned upside down and the second type of cells is cultured on the other surface, the first type of cells is cultured. Since the air that accumulates on the surface that is being cultured can be released to the outside of the first member 20 through the side opening 23, it is possible to prevent the air from remaining on the culture surface of the first type of cells that are seeded first. It is possible to avoid inconvenience caused by the residual air (for example, the first cell does not come into contact with the culture medium).

更に、上記した切欠部21b及び側面開口部23は、第一部材20における互いに周方向同じ位置に設けられており、互いに軸方向Xに連続して配置されて一体化されている。このため、切欠部21b及び側面開口部23が設けられる第一部材20の型構造を簡素化することができ、第一部材20を精度良く簡易に製造することができる。 Furthermore, the notch portion 21b and the side opening portion 23 described above are provided at the same positions in the circumferential direction of the first member 20, and are continuously arranged in the axial direction X and integrated. Therefore, it is possible to simplify the mold structure of the first member 20 in which the notch portion 21b and the side opening portion 23 are provided, and to manufacture the first member 20 with high accuracy and ease.

尚、上記の第一実施形態においては、第一部材20の凹部25及び第二部材30の凸部35がそれぞれ、特許請求の範囲に記載した「係止部」に相当している。 In the first embodiment described above, the concave portion 25 of the first member 20 and the convex portion 35 of the second member 30 respectively correspond to the "locking portion" described in the claims.

ところで、上記の第一実施形態においては、第一部材20の切欠部21b及び側面開口部23が、互いに周方向同じ位置に設けられ、互いに軸方向Xに連続して配置されている。しかしながら、本発明は、これに限定されるものではなく、第一部材20の切欠部21b及び側面開口部23が、互いに周方向異なる位置に設けられ、互いに軸方向Xに不連続で配置されていてもよい。この変形形態の構造によれば、上記の第一実施形態の構造に比べて、第一部材20の周方向への捩れ剛性を確保することができる。 By the way, in the above-described first embodiment, the cutout portion 21b and the side opening portion 23 of the first member 20 are provided at the same positions in the circumferential direction, and are arranged continuously in the axial direction X with each other. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the cutout portion 21b and the side opening portion 23 of the first member 20 are provided at different positions in the circumferential direction and arranged discontinuously in the axial direction X. may According to the structure of this modified form, compared to the structure of the first embodiment, it is possible to ensure the torsional rigidity of the first member 20 in the circumferential direction.

また、上記の第一実施形態においては、第一部材20が、第一筒部21の周壁部21aの内面に径方向外側へ向けて凹んで設けられた凹部25を有すると共に、第二部材30が、第二筒部31の外面に径方向外側へ向けて突起して設けられた凸部35を有する。しかしながら、本発明は、これに限定されるものではなく、第一部材20が、第一筒部21の内面に径方向内側へ向けて突起して設けられた凸部を有すると共に、第二部材30が、第二筒部31の外面に径方向内側へ向けて凹んで設けられた凹部を有するものとしてもよい。 Further, in the first embodiment described above, the first member 20 has the recess 25 that is recessed radially outward on the inner surface of the peripheral wall portion 21a of the first cylindrical portion 21, and the second member 30 has a convex portion 35 provided on the outer surface of the second cylindrical portion 31 so as to protrude radially outward. However, the present invention is not limited to this. 30 may have a recess that is provided on the outer surface of the second cylinder portion 31 so as to be recessed radially inward.

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、上記第一実施形態の細胞培養器具1と同様に、足場依存性のある細胞を培養する器具である。以下、細胞培養器具100において、細胞培養器具1と同じ構成要素については、同じ符号を付してその説明を省略又は簡略する。
[Second embodiment]
The cell culture device 100 of the second embodiment is a device for culturing anchorage-dependent cells, like the cell culture device 1 of the first embodiment. Hereinafter, in the cell culture device 100, the same components as those in the cell culture device 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted or simplified.

細胞培養器具100は、図7に示す如く、培養膜10と、第一部材110と、第二部材120と、を備えている。細胞培養器具100は、培養膜10を第一部材110と第二部材120とで挟持して固定する。 The cell culture device 100 includes a culture membrane 10, a first member 110, and a second member 120, as shown in FIG. The cell culture device 100 sandwiches and fixes the culture membrane 10 between the first member 110 and the second member 120 .

第一部材110及び第二部材120はそれぞれ、培養膜10を挟持固定するための基材である。第一部材110及び第二部材120はそれぞれ、筒状に形成された部材である。第一部材110及び第二部材120はそれぞれ、樹脂材料やゴムなどにより形成されている。 The first member 110 and the second member 120 are base materials for clamping and fixing the culture membrane 10, respectively. Each of the first member 110 and the second member 120 is a tubular member. The first member 110 and the second member 120 are each made of a resin material, rubber, or the like.

第一部材110は、軸方向Xに筒状に延びる第一筒部111と、載置部(図示せず)と、第一筒部111を径方向に貫通する側面開口部112と、を有している。側面開口部112は、第一筒部111における少なくとも載置部に載置された培養膜10よりも軸方向Xの載置部側(図7における下側)の箇所を含む所定部位に設けられている。尚、この載置部は、第一筒部111における軸方向Xに向いた軸方向端面であってよい。 The first member 110 has a first tubular portion 111 that extends in the axial direction X in a tubular shape, a mounting portion (not shown), and a side opening 112 that radially penetrates the first tubular portion 111 . are doing. The side opening 112 is provided at a predetermined portion of the first cylindrical portion 111 including at least a portion closer to the mounting portion in the axial direction X than the culture membrane 10 mounted on the mounting portion (lower side in FIG. 7). ing. Note that this mounting portion may be an axial end surface of the first cylindrical portion 111 facing in the axial direction X. As shown in FIG.

第二部材120は、第一部材110の第一筒部111の一部に外挿されて配置される。第二部材120は、軸方向Xに筒状に延びる第二筒部121と、第一部材110の載置部に軸方向Xで対向する対向部122と、第一筒部111を径方向に貫通する側面開口部123と、を有している。対向部122は、第二筒部121の軸方向一端(図7における下端)の内周側に環状に形成されている。対向部122は、軸方向端面にて培養膜10の支持枠12に当接してその培養膜10を保持する。尚、対向部122は、第二筒部121における軸方向Xに向いた軸方向端面であってよい。 The second member 120 is arranged so as to be externally inserted on a part of the first tubular portion 111 of the first member 110 . The second member 120 includes a second cylindrical portion 121 extending in the axial direction X in a cylindrical shape, a facing portion 122 facing the mounting portion of the first member 110 in the axial direction X, and the first cylindrical portion 111 extending in the radial direction. and a side opening 123 therethrough. The opposing portion 122 is annularly formed on the inner peripheral side of one axial end (lower end in FIG. 7) of the second tubular portion 121 . The opposing portion 122 holds the culture membrane 10 by contacting the support frame 12 of the culture membrane 10 at the end face in the axial direction. In addition, the facing portion 122 may be an axial end surface facing the axial direction X of the second cylindrical portion 121 .

側面開口部123は、第二筒部121の周方向一部に設けられ、第二筒部121の所定部位に一箇所設けられている。側面開口部123は、第一部材110の側面開口部112に連通している。この側面開口部123が設けられる所定部位は、少なくとも載置部に載置された培養膜10よりも軸方向Xの載置部側(図7における下側)の箇所を含んでいる。側面開口部123は、第一部材110の側面開口部112と共に、載置部に載置された培養膜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 side opening portion 123 is provided in a part of the second cylindrical portion 121 in the circumferential direction, and is provided at one predetermined portion of the second cylindrical portion 121 . Side opening 123 communicates with side opening 112 of first member 110 . The predetermined portion where the side opening 123 is provided includes at least a portion closer to the mounting portion in the axial direction X than the culture membrane 10 mounted on the mounting portion (lower side in FIG. 7). The side opening 123, together with the side opening 112 of the first member 110, has an air venting function of releasing air accumulated on the lower surface of the culture membrane 10 mounted on the mounting portion to the outside.

第一部材110及び第二部材120は、互いの組付け状態で互いに離間する軸方向Xへの相対移動を規制する係止部を有している。すなわち、第一部材110は、係止部としての凸部113を有していると共に、第二部材120は、係止部としての凹部124を有している。凸部113及び凹部124は、第一部材110及び第二部材120の組付け状態で互いに離間する軸方向Xへの相対移動を規制する。 The first member 110 and the second member 120 have locking portions that restrict relative movement in the axial direction X so that they are separated from each other in the assembled state. That is, the first member 110 has a convex portion 113 as a locking portion, and the second member 120 has a concave portion 124 as a locking portion. The convex portion 113 and the concave portion 124 restrict relative movement in the axial direction X to separate from each other in the assembled state of the first member 110 and the second member 120 .

凸部113は、第一筒部111の外面に径方向外側へ向けて突起して設けられた突起部である。凸部113は、例えば第一部材110の周方向二箇所(例えば180°異なる位置)に設けられている。凸部113は、凹部124に対応した大きさに形成されている。具体的には、凸部113は、凹部124の幅に対応した幅を有している。 The convex portion 113 is a protrusion provided on the outer surface of the first tubular portion 111 so as to protrude radially outward. The protrusions 113 are provided, for example, at two locations in the circumferential direction of the first member 110 (for example, at 180° different locations). The convex portion 113 is formed to have a size corresponding to the concave portion 124 . Specifically, the protrusion 113 has a width corresponding to the width of the recess 124 .

凹部124は、第二筒部121の内面に径方向外側へ向けて凹んで設けられた溝部である。凹部124は、第二筒部121の軸方向一端部に形成されている。凹部124は、例えば第二部材120の周方向二箇所(例えば180°異なる位置)に設けられている。凹部124は、軸方向Xに対して傾斜して形成されている。すなわち、凹部124は、周方向に延びつつ軸方向Xに延びるように螺旋状に形成されている。凹部124の最奥部は、上記の第一部材110の凸部113が係止される係止壁を形成している。 The recess 124 is a groove provided on the inner surface of the second cylindrical portion 121 so as to be recessed radially outward. The recess 124 is formed at one axial end of the second cylindrical portion 121 . The recesses 124 are provided, for example, at two locations in the circumferential direction of the second member 120 (for example, at 180° different locations). The concave portion 124 is formed to be inclined with respect to the axial direction X. As shown in FIG. That is, the recessed portion 124 is spirally formed so as to extend in the axial direction X while extending in the circumferential direction. The innermost part of the concave portion 124 forms a locking wall on which the convex portion 113 of the first member 110 is locked.

第一部材110と第二部材120との組み付けは、凸部113が凹部124に沿って移動するように行われる。凸部113は、凹部124の最奥部に嵌って係止壁に係止されることが可能である。第一部材110と第二部材120とは、凸部113が凹部124に嵌って係止壁に係止されることにより、互いに組み付けられた状態になり、互いに離間する軸方向Xへの相対移動が規制されることとなる。 The assembly of the first member 110 and the second member 120 is performed so that the convex portion 113 moves along the concave portion 124 . The convex portion 113 can be fitted into the deepest portion of the concave portion 124 and locked to the locking wall. The first member 110 and the second member 120 are assembled to each other by fitting the projection 113 into the recess 124 and being locked by the locking wall, and are moved away from each other relative to each other in the axial direction X. will be regulated.

次に、細胞培養器具100の組み立てについて説明する。 Next, assembly of the cell culture device 100 will be described.

細胞培養器具100の構成部品である培養膜10、第一部材110、及び第二部材120を用意する。細胞培養器具100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、第一部材110への培養膜10の組み付けが行われる。第一部材110への培養膜10の組み付けは、治具で培養膜10を把持したうえで、その培養膜10を第一部材110に対して軸方向Xへ移動させて、その培養膜10を第一部材110の載置部の軸方向端面に当接させて載置することにより実現される。尚、上記した第一部材110への培養膜10の組み付けは、第一部材110を載置部側の軸方向端部が上方に位置するようにセットした状態で行われることとすればよい。 The culture membrane 10, the first member 110, and the second member 120, which are components of the cell culture device 100, are prepared. The assembly of the cell culture device 100 is manually performed by a person using a jig such as tweezers. As this assembly procedure, first, the culture membrane 10 is assembled to the first member 110 . The assembly of the culture membrane 10 to the first member 110 is performed by gripping the culture membrane 10 with a jig and moving the culture membrane 10 in the axial direction X with respect to the first member 110 to remove the culture membrane 10. This is achieved by placing the first member 110 in contact with the axial end face of the placing portion. The assembly of the culture membrane 10 to the first member 110 described above may be performed in a state in which the first member 110 is set so that the axial end on the mounting section side is positioned upward.

次に、上記の如く載置部に培養膜10が載置された第一部材110への第二部材120の組み付けが行われる。この組み付けは、まず、治具で第二部材120を第一部材110に対して軸方向Xの互いに近づく方向へ移動させて外挿すると共に周方向に回転させて、第一部材110の凸部113を第二部材120の凹部124に沿って移動させることにより実現される。尚、上記した第一部材110への第二部材120の組み付けは、第一部材110を載置部側の軸方向端部が上方に位置するようにセットした状態で第二部材120をその第一部材110の上方から挿入するものとすればよい。 Next, the second member 120 is assembled to the first member 110 on which the culture membrane 10 is mounted on the mounting portion as described above. For this assembly, first, the second member 120 is moved toward the first member 110 in the axial direction X by using a jig, and is rotated in the circumferential direction so that the convex portion of the first member 110 is inserted. It is realized by moving 113 along the recess 124 of the second member 120 . The second member 120 is attached to the first member 110 as described above, with the first member 110 set so that the axial end on the mounting section side is positioned upward, and then the second member 120 is attached to the first member 110. The one member 110 may be inserted from above.

上記の移動が行われて、第一部材110の凸部113が第二部材120の凹部124の最奥部に嵌ると、両部材110,120の軸方向Xの互いに離間する方向への相対移動が規制されると共に両部材110,120が互いに装着されて、両部材110,120の組み付けが完了する。両部材110,120の組み付けが完了すると、載置部と対向部122とがその間で培養膜10(具体的には、支持枠12)を挟持すると共に、第一部材110の凸部113が第二部材120の凹部124の係止壁に係止される。 When the above-described movement is performed and the convex portion 113 of the first member 110 fits into the deepest portion of the concave portion 124 of the second member 120, the two members 110 and 120 are moved relative to each other in the axial direction X so as to separate from each other. is regulated and both members 110 and 120 are attached to each other, completing the assembly of both members 110 and 120 . When both members 110 and 120 are completely assembled, the culture membrane 10 (specifically, the support frame 12) is sandwiched between the mounting portion and the facing portion 122, and the convex portion 113 of the first member 110 is moved to the second position. It is locked to the locking wall of the recess 124 of the two members 120 .

この細胞培養器具100の構造によれば、第一部材110及び第二部材120の組付後、第一部材110及び第二部材120により培養膜10の支持枠12を挟持した状態で、その第一部材110と第二部材120との軸方向Xへの相対移動を、係止部としての凸部113及び凹部124により規制することができる。このため、培養膜10を挟持する第一部材110と第二部材120との組付け状態での密着性を向上させることができ、細胞培養時に培養膜10を挟んだ両側間でのシール性を確保することができる。 According to the structure of the cell culture device 100, after the first member 110 and the second member 120 are assembled, the first member 110 and the second member 120 hold the support frame 12 of the culture membrane 10 between them. The relative movement in the axial direction X between the one member 110 and the second member 120 can be restricted by the convex portion 113 and the concave portion 124 as locking portions. Therefore, the adhesion between the first member 110 and the second member 120 that sandwich the culture membrane 10 can be improved in the assembled state, and the sealing property between both sides sandwiching the culture membrane 10 during cell culture can be improved. can be secured.

上記の如く第一部材110と第二部材120との組み付けが完了すると、その後、上記第一実施形態の場合と同様の手法で、培養膜10の両面への細胞培養が行われる。従って、細胞培養器具100によれば、上記第一実施形態の細胞培養器具1と同様の効果を得ることができる。 After the assembly of the first member 110 and the second member 120 is completed as described above, cell culture is performed on both surfaces of the culture membrane 10 by the same method as in the first embodiment. Therefore, according to the cell culture device 100, the same effect as the cell culture device 1 of the first embodiment can be obtained.

尚、上記の第二実施形態においては、第一部材110の凸部113及び第二部材120の凹部124がそれぞれ、特許請求の範囲に記載した「係止部」に相当している。 In addition, in the above-described second embodiment, the convex portion 113 of the first member 110 and the concave portion 124 of the second member 120 respectively correspond to the "locking portion" described in the claims.

ところで、上記の第二実施形態においては、第一部材110が、第一筒部111の外面に径方向外側へ向けて突起して設けられた凸部113を有すると共に、第二部材120が、第二筒部121の内面に径方向外側へ向けて凹んで設けられた凹部124を有する。しかしながら、本発明は、これに限定されるものではなく、第一部材110が、第一筒部111の外面に径方向内側へ向けて凹んで設けられた凹部を有すると共に、第二部材120が、第二筒部121の内面に径方向内側へ向けて突起して設けられた凸部を有するものとしてもよい。 By the way, in the above-described second embodiment, the first member 110 has the convex portion 113 provided on the outer surface of the first cylindrical portion 111 so as to protrude radially outward, and the second member 120 A concave portion 124 is provided on the inner surface of the second cylindrical portion 121 so as to be concaved radially outward. However, the present invention is not limited to this. , the inner surface of the second cylindrical portion 121 may have a convex portion protruding radially inward.

[第三実施形態]
第三実施形態の細胞培養器具200は、上記第一実施形態の細胞培養器具1と同様に、足場依存性のある細胞を培養する器具である。以下、細胞培養器具200において、細胞培養器具1と同じ構成要素については、同じ符号を付してその説明を省略又は簡略する。
[Third embodiment]
The cell culture device 200 of the third embodiment is a device for culturing anchorage-dependent cells, like the cell culture device 1 of the first embodiment. Hereinafter, in the cell culture device 200, the same components as those in the cell culture device 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted or simplified.

細胞培養器具200は、図8及び図9に示す如く、培養膜10と、第一部材210と、第二部材220と、を備えている。細胞培養器具200は、培養膜10を第一部材210と第二部材220とで挟持して固定する。 The cell culture device 200 includes a culture membrane 10, a first member 210, and a second member 220, as shown in FIGS. The cell culture device 200 sandwiches and fixes the culture membrane 10 between the first member 210 and the second member 220 .

第一部材210及び第二部材220はそれぞれ、培養膜10を挟持固定するための基材である。第一部材210及び第二部材220はそれぞれ、筒状に形成された部材である。第一部材210及び第二部材220はそれぞれ、樹脂材料やゴムなどにより形成されている。 The first member 210 and the second member 220 are base materials for clamping and fixing the culture membrane 10, respectively. Each of the first member 210 and the second member 220 is a tubular member. The first member 210 and the second member 220 are each made of a resin material, rubber, or the like.

第一部材210は、上記第一実施形態の第一部材20の第一筒部21及び載置部22と同様の、軸方向Xに筒状に延びる第一筒部211と、培養膜10が載置される載置部212と、を有している。第二部材220は、上記第一実施形態の第二部材30の第二筒部31及び対向部32と同様の、第一部材210の第一筒部211内に挿入されて配置される。第二部材220は、軸方向Xに筒状に延びる第二筒部221と、第一部材210の載置部212に軸方向Xで対向する対向部222と、を有している。 The first member 210 includes a first cylindrical portion 211 extending cylindrically in the axial direction X and the culture membrane 10, similar to the first cylindrical portion 21 and the mounting portion 22 of the first member 20 of the first embodiment. and a mounting portion 212 to be mounted. The second member 220 is inserted and arranged in the first tubular portion 211 of the first member 210, which is similar to the second tubular portion 31 and the facing portion 32 of the second member 30 of the first embodiment. The second member 220 has a second tubular portion 221 that extends in the axial direction X in a tubular shape, and a facing portion 222 that faces the mounting portion 212 of the first member 210 in the axial direction X.

第一部材210及び第二部材220は、互いの組付け状態で互いに離間する軸方向Xへの相対移動を規制する係止部を有している。この係止部は、いわゆるスナップフィット方式の係止部である。すなわち、第一部材210は、係止部としての弾性変形部213を有していると共に、第二部材220は、係止部としての溝部223を有している。弾性変形部213及び溝部223は、第一部材210及び第二部材220の組付け状態で互いに離間する軸方向Xへの相対移動を規制する。 The first member 210 and the second member 220 have locking portions that restrict relative movement in the axial direction X so that they are separated from each other in the assembled state. This locking portion is a so-called snap-fit type locking portion. That is, the first member 210 has an elastic deformation portion 213 as a locking portion, and the second member 220 has a groove portion 223 as a locking portion. The elastically deforming portion 213 and the groove portion 223 restrict relative movement in the axial direction X to separate from each other in the assembled state of the first member 210 and the second member 220 .

弾性変形部213は、第一筒部211の軸方向端面から軸方向Xへ向けて板状に延びる部位である。弾性変形部213は、径方向に弾性変形することが可能である。弾性変形部213は、例えば第一部材210の周方向二箇所(例えば180°異なる位置)に設けられている。弾性変形部213の軸方向先端部には、爪部214が設けられている。爪部214は、弾性変形部213の板状本体から径方向内側に突出する引掛部である。爪部214の径方向内面は、テーパ状に傾斜した傾斜面215をなしている。爪部214の径方向幅は、根元側が最大であり、軸方向先端にかけて徐々に小さくなるように設定されている。 The elastically deformable portion 213 is a portion extending in the axial direction X from the axial end surface of the first cylindrical portion 211 in a plate shape. The elastic deformation portion 213 can be elastically deformed in the radial direction. The elastically deformable portions 213 are provided, for example, at two locations in the circumferential direction of the first member 210 (for example, at 180° different locations). A claw portion 214 is provided at the tip portion in the axial direction of the elastic deformation portion 213 . The claw portion 214 is a hook portion protruding radially inward from the plate-like main body of the elastic deformation portion 213 . A radial inner surface of the claw portion 214 forms a tapered inclined surface 215 . The radial width of the claw portion 214 is set to be maximum at the root side and gradually decrease toward the tip in the axial direction.

溝部223は、第二筒部221の外面に径方向内側へ向けて凹んで設けられている。溝部223は、第二筒部221の軸方向中途に形成されている。溝部223は、第一部材210と第二部材220とが軸方向Xに所定位置関係まで接近した際に爪部214が引っ掛かる部位である。溝部223は、例えば第二部材220の周方向二箇所(例えば180°異なる位置)に設けられている。溝部223は、第一部材210の弾性変形部213の爪部214に対応した大きさに形成されている。溝部223は、第一部材210の爪部214が引っ掛かって係止される係止壁を形成している。 The groove portion 223 is provided on the outer surface of the second cylindrical portion 221 so as to be recessed radially inward. The groove portion 223 is formed in the middle of the second cylindrical portion 221 in the axial direction. The groove portion 223 is a portion where the claw portion 214 is hooked when the first member 210 and the second member 220 approach each other in the axial direction X to a predetermined positional relationship. The grooves 223 are provided, for example, at two positions in the circumferential direction of the second member 220 (for example, positions different by 180°). The groove portion 223 is formed to have a size corresponding to the claw portion 214 of the elastic deformation portion 213 of the first member 210 . The groove portion 223 forms a locking wall on which the claw portion 214 of the first member 210 is caught and locked.

第一部材210と第二部材220との組み付けは、図8及び図9に示す如く、弾性変形部213の爪部214が溝部223に引っ掛かるように軸方向Xに相対移動させることにより行われる。第一部材210と第二部材220とは、爪部214が溝部223に引っ掛かって係止されることにより、互いに組み付けられた状態になり、互いに離間する軸方向Xへの相対移動が規制されることとなる。 As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 , the first member 210 and the second member 220 are assembled by relatively moving them in the axial direction X so that the claw portions 214 of the elastically deformable portions 213 are caught in the groove portions 223 . The first member 210 and the second member 220 are assembled with each other by hooking the claws 214 on the grooves 223, and are restricted from moving apart from each other relative to each other in the axial direction X. It will happen.

次に、細胞培養器具200の組み立てについて説明する。 Next, assembly of the cell culture device 200 will be described.

細胞培養器具200の構成部品である培養膜10、第一部材210、及び第二部材220を用意する。細胞培養器具200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、第一部材210への培養膜10の組み付けが行われる。第一部材210への培養膜10の組み付けは、治具で培養膜10を把持したうえで、その培養膜10を第一部材210に対して軸方向Xへ移動させて、その培養膜10を第一部材210の載置部212の軸方向端面に当接させて載置することにより実現される。尚、上記した第一部材210への培養膜10の組み付けは、第一部材210を載置部側の軸方向端部が上方に位置するようにセットした状態で行われることとすればよい。 The culture membrane 10, the first member 210, and the second member 220, which are components of the cell culture device 200, are prepared. The assembly of the cell culture device 200 is manually performed by a person using a jig such as tweezers. As this assembly procedure, first, the culture membrane 10 is assembled to the first member 210 . The assembly of the culture membrane 10 to the first member 210 is performed by gripping the culture membrane 10 with a jig and moving the culture membrane 10 in the axial direction X with respect to the first member 210 to remove the culture membrane 10. This is achieved by placing the first member 210 in contact with the axial end face of the placing portion 212 . The assembly of the culture membrane 10 to the first member 210 may be performed with the first member 210 set so that the axial end on the mounting section side is positioned upward.

次に、上記の如く載置部に培養膜10が載置された第一部材210への第二部材220の組み付けが行われる。この組み付けは、治具で第二部材120を第一部材110に対して軸方向Xの互いに近づく方向へ移動させて挿入することにより実現される。具体的には、まず、第二部材220の第二筒部221を第一部材210の弾性変形部213の爪部214の傾斜面215に当接させて、その弾性変形部213の軸方向先端部を径方向外側に撓ませて変形させ、その後、弾性変形部213の爪部214が第二部材220の溝部223に達した際に弾性変形部213の軸方向先端部を径方向内側に戻し変形させてその爪部214を溝部223に引っ掛ける。尚、上記した第一部材210への第二部材220の組み付けは、第一部材210を載置部212側の軸方向端部が下方に位置するようにセットした状態で第二部材220をその第一部材210の上方から挿入するものとすればよい。 Next, the second member 220 is assembled to the first member 210 on which the culture membrane 10 is mounted on the mounting portion as described above. This assembly is realized by moving the second member 120 toward the first member 110 in the axial direction X with a jig and inserting it. Specifically, first, the second cylindrical portion 221 of the second member 220 is brought into contact with the inclined surface 215 of the claw portion 214 of the elastic deformation portion 213 of the first member 210, and the tip of the elastic deformation portion 213 in the axial direction After that, when the claw portion 214 of the elastic deformation portion 213 reaches the groove portion 223 of the second member 220, the axial tip portion of the elastic deformation portion 213 is returned radially inward. The claw portion 214 is hooked on the groove portion 223 by deforming. The second member 220 is attached to the first member 210 as described above, with the first member 210 set so that the axial end of the mounting portion 212 side is positioned downward, and then the second member 220 is attached. It may be inserted from above the first member 210 .

上記の移動が行われて、第一部材210の弾性変形部213の爪部214が第二部材220の溝部223に引っ掛かると、両部材210,220の軸方向Xの互いに離間する方向への相対移動が規制されると共に両部材210,220が互いに装着されて、両部材210,220の組み付けが完了する。両部材210,220の組み付けが完了すると、載置部212と対向部222とがその間で培養膜10(具体的には、支持枠12)を挟持すると共に、第一部材210の爪部214が第二部材220の溝部223に係止される。 When the above-described movement is performed and the claw portion 214 of the elastic deformation portion 213 of the first member 210 is caught in the groove portion 223 of the second member 220, the two members 210 and 220 move away from each other in the axial direction X. Both members 210 and 220 are attached to each other while movement is restricted, and the assembly of both members 210 and 220 is completed. When the assembly of both members 210 and 220 is completed, the culture membrane 10 (specifically, the support frame 12) is sandwiched between the mounting portion 212 and the facing portion 222, and the claw portions 214 of the first member 210 are engaged. It is locked to the groove portion 223 of the second member 220 .

この細胞培養器具200の構造によれば、第一部材210及び第二部材220の組付後、第一部材210及び第二部材220により培養膜10の支持枠12を挟持した状態で、その第一部材210と第二部材220との軸方向Xへの相対移動を、係止部としての弾性変形部213及び溝部223により規制することができる。このため、培養膜10を挟持する第一部材210と第二部材220との組付け状態での密着性を向上させることができ、細胞培養時に培養膜10を挟んだ両側間でのシール性を確保することができる。 According to the structure of the cell culture device 200, after the first member 210 and the second member 220 have been assembled, the first member 210 and the second member 220 hold the support frame 12 of the culture membrane 10 between them. The relative movement in the axial direction X between the one member 210 and the second member 220 can be restricted by the elastic deformation portion 213 and the groove portion 223 as locking portions. Therefore, the adhesion between the first member 210 and the second member 220 that sandwich the culture membrane 10 can be improved in the assembled state, and the sealing property between both sides sandwiching the culture membrane 10 during cell culture can be improved. can be secured.

上記の如く第一部材210と第二部材220との組み付けが完了すると、その後、上記第一実施形態の場合と同様の手法で、培養膜10の両面への細胞培養が行われる。従って、細胞培養器具200によれば、上記第一実施形態の細胞培養器具1と同様の効果を得ることができる。また、細胞培養器具200によれば、第一部材210と第二部材220との組み付けを両部材210,220を軸方向Xに相対移動させるだけで実現することができるので、組み付け性を簡素化して、組み付け作業を容易化することができる。 After the assembly of the first member 210 and the second member 220 is completed as described above, cell culture is performed on both surfaces of the culture membrane 10 by the same method as in the first embodiment. Therefore, according to the cell culture device 200, the same effect as the cell culture device 1 of the first embodiment can be obtained. In addition, according to the cell culture device 200, the assembly of the first member 210 and the second member 220 can be realized only by relatively moving the two members 210 and 220 in the axial direction X, which simplifies assembly. Therefore, the assembly work can be facilitated.

尚、第一部材210と第二部材220との組み付けを解除するためには、図9に示す如く、棒状の治具300を用いて、その第一部材210の弾性変形部213を強制的に径方向外側に撓ませて変形させ、その状態で第二部材220を第一部材210から軸方向Xに引き抜くこととすればよい。また、この治具300を用いて第一部材210と第二部材220との組み付けを解除するためには、第一部材210の弾性変形部213の爪部214が第二部材220の溝部223に引っ掛かっている状態で、治具300が爪部214の傾斜面215に当接できるように、その傾斜面215の一部が第二部材220の第二筒部221の外面よりも径方向外側に位置していることが必要である。この構成によれば、治具300を用いて第一部材210と第二部材220との組み付けを解除することができる。 In order to release the assembly of the first member 210 and the second member 220, as shown in FIG. The second member 220 may be bent radially outward and deformed, and the second member 220 may be pulled out in the axial direction X from the first member 210 in this state. In addition, in order to release the assembly of the first member 210 and the second member 220 using this jig 300, the claw portion 214 of the elastically deforming portion 213 of the first member 210 must fit into the groove portion 223 of the second member 220. A part of the inclined surface 215 of the claw portion 214 is radially outward from the outer surface of the second cylindrical portion 221 of the second member 220 so that the jig 300 can contact the inclined surface 215 of the claw portion 214 in the hooked state. must be located. According to this configuration, the assembly between the first member 210 and the second member 220 can be released using the jig 300 .

ところで、上記の第三実施形態においては、第一部材210の弾性変形部213及び第二部材220の溝部223がそれぞれ、特許請求の範囲に記載した「係止部」に相当している。 By the way, in the above-described third embodiment, the elastic deformation portion 213 of the first member 210 and the groove portion 223 of the second member 220 respectively correspond to the "locking portion" described in the claims.

また、上記の第三実施形態においては、第一部材210が、板状本体から径方向内側に突出する爪部214が設けられた弾性変形部213を有すると共に、第二部材220が、第二筒部221の外面に径方向内側へ向けて凹んで設けられた溝部223を有する。しかしながら、本発明は、これに限定されるものではなく、第一部材210が、第一筒部211の内面に径方向外側へ向けて凹んで設けられた溝部を有すると共に、第二部材220が、板状本体から径方向外側に突出する爪部が設けられた弾性変形部を有するものとしてもよい。 In the above-described third embodiment, the first member 210 has the elastically deformable portion 213 provided with the claw portion 214 projecting radially inward from the plate-like main body, and the second member 220 has the second A groove portion 223 is provided on the outer surface of the tubular portion 221 so as to be recessed radially inward. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Alternatively, the elastically deforming portion may be provided with a claw portion protruding radially outward from the plate-like main body.

尚、上記の第一、第二、及び第三実施形態においては、培養膜10が、膜体11と、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, second, and third 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

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:培養膜、11:膜体、12:支持枠、20,110,210:第一部材、21,111,211:第一筒部、21a:周壁部、21b:切欠部、22,212:載置部、23:側面開口部、25,124:凹部、25a:軸平行部、25b:直交部、30,120,220:第二部材、31,121,221:第二筒部、32,122,222:対向部、35,113:凸部、213:弾性変形部、214:爪部、215:傾斜面、223:溝部。 1, 100, 200: cell culture device, 10: culture membrane, 11: membrane body, 12: support frame, 20, 110, 210: first member, 21, 111, 211: first cylindrical portion, 21a: peripheral wall portion 21b: Notch 22, 212: Mounting portion 23: Side opening 25, 124: Recessed portion 25a: Axis-parallel portion 25b: Orthogonal portion 30, 120, 220: Second member 31, 121 , 221: second cylindrical portion; 32, 122, 222: facing portion; 35, 113: convex portion; 213: elastic deformation portion;

Claims (6)

膜体と、前記膜体に接合された支持枠と、を有する培養膜と、
軸方向に筒状に延びる第一筒部と、軸方向に向いた軸方向端面が形成された、前記支持枠に当接して前記培養膜が載置される載置部と、を有する第一部材と、
軸方向に筒状に延びる第二筒部と、前記載置部の軸方向端面に軸方向で対向し、前記載置部との間で前記支持枠を挟持する対向部と、を有する第二部材と、
を備える細胞培養器具であって、
前記第一部材及び前記第二部材は、前記載置部と前記対向部とが前記支持枠を挟持するように互いに組み付けられた状態で互いに離間する軸方向への相対移動を規制する係止部を有し、
前記係止部は、
前記第一筒部及び前記第二筒部の一方の周壁に径方向へ凹んで設けられた凹部と、
前記第一筒部及び前記第二筒部の他方の周壁に径方向へ突起して設けられ、前記第一部材と前記第二部材との組み付け時に前記凹部に沿って移動する凸部と、
を有し、
前記凹部は、
軸方向に延び、前記第一部材と前記第二部材との軸方向への相対移動時に前記凸部が沿って移動する軸平行部と、
前記軸平行部の軸方向一端部に接続され、軸方向に対して直交する方向に延び、前記第一部材と前記第二部材との周方向への相対回転時に前記凸部が沿って移動する直交部と、
を有し、
前記直交部の幅は、周方向位置に応じて変化し、前記軸平行部に近い側から遠い側にかけて狭くなり、
前記第一筒部は、内周面が前記培養膜を前記載置部まで案内可能に形成された周壁部を有し、
前記周壁部は、径方向に貫通しかつ前記第一筒部の軸方向端部から前記載置部が設けられた部位にかけて軸方向に延びるように設けられた切欠部を有し、
前記切欠部は、前記培養膜を前記載置部に着脱させるための治具を径方向外方から挿入させて軸方向に移動可能とする、細胞培養器具。
a culture membrane having a membrane body and a support frame joined to the membrane body;
A first tubular portion extending in the axial direction in a cylindrical shape, and a mounting portion formed with an axial end surface facing the axial direction, and on which the culture membrane is mounted in contact with the support frame. a member;
A second tubular portion extending in an axial direction in a tubular shape, and a facing portion that axially faces an axial end surface of the mounting portion and sandwiches the support frame between the mounting portion and the second cylindrical portion. a member;
A cell culture device comprising
The first member and the second member are separated from each other in a state in which the mounting portion and the facing portion are assembled to each other so as to sandwich the support frame, and the locking portion restricts relative movement in the axial direction. has
The locking portion is
a concave portion that is recessed in a radial direction in one of the peripheral walls of the first cylindrical portion and the second cylindrical portion;
a convex portion protruding radially from the other peripheral wall of the first cylindrical portion and the second cylindrical portion and moving along the concave portion when the first member and the second member are assembled together;
has
The recess is
an axis-parallel portion extending in the axial direction along which the convex portion moves when the first member and the second member move relative to each other in the axial direction;
It is connected to one end in the axial direction of the axially parallel portion, extends in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction, and along which the convex portion moves when the first member and the second member rotate relative to each other in the circumferential direction. an orthogonal portion;
has
The width of the orthogonal portion varies depending on the position in the circumferential direction, and narrows from the side closer to the axis-parallel portion to the side farther,
The first cylindrical portion has a peripheral wall portion whose inner peripheral surface is formed so as to be able to guide the culture membrane to the mounting portion,
The peripheral wall portion has a notch portion that penetrates in the radial direction and extends axially from the axial end portion of the first cylindrical portion to the portion where the mounting portion is provided,
A cell culture device, wherein the notch portion allows a jig for attaching and detaching the culture membrane to and from the mounting portion to be inserted from the outside in the radial direction so as to be movable in the axial direction.
前記直交部は、前記直交部の幅が最小幅である箇所よりも前記軸平行部から遠い奥側に位置して前記凸部が嵌る部位を有する、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 orthogonal portion has a portion in which the convex portion is fitted, the portion being located farther from the axis-parallel portion than the portion where the width of the orthogonal portion is the minimum width. 前記直交部は、軸方向他端側に形成されて前記凸部が係止される係止壁を有し、 the orthogonal portion has a locking wall formed on the other end side in the axial direction and locking the convex portion;
前記係止壁は、前記軸平行部に近い側から遠い側にかけて軸方向一端側に傾斜している、請求項1又は2に記載された細胞培養器具。 3. The cell culture device according to claim 1, wherein the locking wall is inclined toward one end in the axial direction from the side closer to the axially parallel portion to the farther side.
前記第一部材は、前記第一筒部の周壁における少なくとも前記載置部に載置された前記培養膜よりも軸方向の前記載置部側の箇所を含む所定部位を径方向に貫通するように設けられ、前記第一筒部の一部を開口させる側面開口部を有する、請求項1乃至3の何れか一項に記載された細胞培養器具。 The first member radially penetrates a predetermined portion of the peripheral wall of the first cylindrical portion, including at least a portion closer to the mounting portion in the axial direction than the culture membrane mounted on the mounting portion. 4. The cell culture device according to any one of claims 1 to 3 , wherein the device has a side opening that is provided in and opens a part of the first tubular portion. 前記側面開口部及び前記切欠部は、前記第一部材における周方向同じ位置に設けられ、軸方向に連続して配置されて互いに一体化されている、請求項に記載された細胞培養器具。 5. The cell culture device according to claim 4 , wherein the side opening and the notch are provided at the same position in the circumferential direction of the first member, are arranged continuously in the axial direction, and are integrated with each other. 前記側面開口部及び前記切欠部は、前記第一部材における周方向異なる位置に設けられている、請求項に記載された細胞培養器具 The cell culture device according to claim 4 , wherein the side opening and the notch are provided at different positions in the circumferential direction of the first member .
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