Engineering challenges in cell-encapsulation technology.
The use of implantable immunoisolation devices, in which the tissue is protected from immune rejection by enclosure within a semipermeable membrane or encapsulant, is one approach in the development of cell therapies. However, further research is required in the areas of: tissue supply from primary or cell-culture sources; maintenance of cell viability and function, its relationship to device design, and the role of, and factors affecting, oxygen-supply limitations; and, protection from immune rejection, especially in view of the mechanisms thought to operate in the presence of a semipermeable membrane, the properties of that membrane, and the implications for biology and device design.
Cotton
C K
CK
Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge 02139-4307, USA. ckcolton@mit.edu
D001709:Biotechnology / Q000639:trends*; D002214:Capsules; D017690:Cell Transplantation / Q000379:methods / Q000639:trends*; D002477:Cells / Q000276:immunology; D006801:Humans; D008567:Membranes, Artificial; D014021:Tissue Preservation / Q000379:methods / Q000639:trends*
D002214:Capsules; D008567:Membranes, Artificial