Abstract: An embodiment in accordance with the present invention provides two devices for the isolation of rare cell populations such as circulating tumor cells (CTCs). Both devices use magnetic fields to manipulate cells that are bounded to paramagnetic particles (PMP). One device uses surface tension and a sieve for cell filtration, whereas the other allows for the direct transfer of cells onto a standard microscope slide. Subsequent processing steps may be directly performed on the devices thereby minimizing cell losses. The first device is referred to as the ST (surface tension) device and the second device is referred to as the DT (direct transfer) device. The ST device can also be considered as a chip for the isolation of the rare cell populations.

Abstract: An embodiment in accordance with the present invention provides a method and device that leverages a controlled scanning process for CTC-antibody binding, rather than classic random mixing. Magnetophoretic direct extraction is used to extract the CTCs onto a standard microscope slide. A device according to the present invention includes a vial into which a CTC bearing solution is combined with antibody-bound-PMP beads. An electromagnet is used to apply a magnetic field to engage the beads along the magnetic lines across the vial. The magnetic field and in turn the beads are moved on a fine pitch helical trajectory. The entire volume of the vial is scanned in this manner, allowing beads to come into close proximity to any CTCs present, and to collect all of the CTCs in the vial.

Abstract: An embodiment in accordance with the present invention provides two devices for the isolation of rare cell populations such as circulating tumor cells (CTCs). Both devices use magnetic fields to manipulate cells that are bounded to paramagnetic particles (PMP). One device uses surface tension and a sieve for cell filtration, whereas the other allows for the direct transfer of cells onto a standard microscope slide. Subsequent processing steps may be directly performed on the devices thereby minimizing cell losses. The first device is referred to as the ST (surface tension) device and the second device is referred to as the DT (direct transfer) device. The ST device can also be considered as a chip for the isolation of the rare cell populations.

Abstract: The present invention provides immortalized human bone marrow endothelial cells which are useful for the study of tumor metastasis. In particular, the human bone marrow endothelial cell lines provided by the invention provide an in vitro model system for screening compounds for the ability to reduce, prevent, or inhibit the metastasis of cancer cells to bone tissue.

Abstract: A method for the treatment of cancer in mammals. A subject afflicted with cancer receives by oral administration a pH modified citrus pectin which inhibits metastasis of primary tumors.

Abstract: A method for the treatment of cancer in mammals. A subject afflicted with cancer receives by oral administration a pH modified citrus pectin which inhibits metastasis of primary tumors.