Abstract: An apparatus (e.g., for cell culture for in vitro growth of tissues and/or organs) includes a base, a plate on the base, and a removable barrier component on the plate. The removable barrier component is configured to at least partially define a first region. The removable barrier component includes a bottom surface and a top surface. The bottom surface configured to be in contact with the plate. The top surface is opposite the bottom surface. The press is configured to engage the top surface of the removable barrier component to apply a predetermined pressure to the removable barrier component. The removable barrier component is between the press and the plate. A joint between the plate and the removable barrier component may be substantially impermeable to live cells. The apparatus may further include a removable cover that engages the base to enclose the plate, the removable barrier component, and the press.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides, in various aspects, a method of forming a prefabricated innervated pre-vascularized pre-laminated (PIPP) flap having a stoma or lumen. The method includes providing a cell construct including skin cells and/or mucosa cells. The method further includes forming an integrated in vivo composite at a donor site by grafting the cell construct onto a muscle. The method further includes stabilizing the composite on an obturator component. The method further includes developing a microvascular system in the composite by retaining it in vivo at the donor site for a predetermined period of time. The method further includes removing the obturator component from the stoma or lumen. In certain aspects, the present disclosure also provides a method of restoring a defect including damaged or surgically removed soft tissue using a PIPP flap. In certain aspect, the present disclosure also provides an obturator component for maintaining the stoma or lumen.