Abstract: The present invention provides a fluid exchange cell culture technique and tissue repair cells (TRCs) made by these methods, as well as methods using these cells. The method includes a new wash step which increases the tissue repair properties of the TRCs of the invention. This wash step allows for the production of TRC populations with greater tissue repair and anti -inflammatory capabilities. Embodiments of the present invention include a post-culture process for cultured cells that preferably includes the steps of: a wash process for removing unwanted residual culture components, a volume reduction process, and a harvesting process to remove cultured cells. Preferably, all these steps are performed within a aseptically closed cell culture chamber by implementing a separation method that minimizes mechanical disruption of the cells and is simple to automate. The harvested cells may then be concentrated to a final volume for the intended use.

Abstract: A portable cassette is disclosed, for receiving, maintaining and growing biological cells ex vivo, without exposing the cells to the external environment. The portable cassette is used in combination with a succession of instruments, to inoculate the cassette's cell growth chamber with cells, to then incubate the chamber so that the cells are optimally expanded, and finally to harvest the expanded cells. Each instrument is configured to condition the portable cassette during a stage of the cell growth process, without disturbing the cassette's sterile system. In addition, an updatable memory device associated with the cassette stores significant information about the cassette and its condition during the various steps of the cell growth process. Such information is useful both for subsequent archival purposes and for facilitating a resumption of the cell growth process in the event of any instrument failure or significant alarm condition.