Abstract: A method for increasing the cytokine production of T-cells intended for use in adoptive immunotherapy is provided. The method improves adoptive immunotherapy methods where the efficacy of the treatment is dependent, at least in part, on the amount of cytokine production from the cells. In practicing the method, ex-vivo produced T-cells intended for use in adoptive immunotherapy treatment protocols are allowed to rest after harvest and then are re-activated just prior to infusion.

Abstract: The present invention includes a syringe device that includes an elongated tubular barrel having a first end and a second end, a plunger telescopically received within at least a portion of the barrel, such that a portion of the plunger extends from the first end of the barrel, and a protective sheath positioned adjacent to an external surface of the portion of the plunger, such that the protective sheath encloses the portion of the plunger extending outwardly from the first end of the barrel. The present invention further includes methods of transporting a biological material within the syringe device, and transferring the biological material between a source container and the syringe device.

Abstract: The present invention includes a bioreactor support system that provides an improved way to culture large quantities of mammalian cells. Mammalian cells are extremely sensitive to their environment, undergoing a programmed cell death in response to nutrient deprivation, growth factor withdrawal, oxygen starvation and excess shear levels. The present invention includes a bioreactor support system which permits the culture of cells at high density and prevents cell death by providing enhanced oxygen delivery to the cells without excessive shear; maintaining cell secreted or exogenously added low molecular weight products (e.g., growth, differentiation and maintenance factors) in the culture space during perfusion culture; and provides the ability to feed the cultures without dilution of the conditioned media. The improved bioreactor support system features two flow paths emanating from a central integrating chamber.