Abstract: Cannula and device implantation systems are provided. In some embodiments, cannula members are provided that comprise membranes to prevent and reduce infection. Cannulas of the present disclosure are operable to be provided as indwelling catheters. In some embodiments, systems of the disclosure comprise encapsulation devices for housing cells and providing various therapeutic benefits to a patient or host.

Abstract: System for gas treatment of cellular implants. The system enhances the viability and function of cellular implants, particularly those with high cellular density, for use in human or veterinary medicine. The system utilizes a miniaturized electrochemical gas generator subsystem that continuously supplies oxygen and/or hydrogen to cells within an implantable and immunoisolated cell containment subsystem to facilitate cell viability and function at high cellular density while minimizing overall implant size. The cell containment subsystem is equipped with features to allow gas delivery through porous tubing or gas-only permeable internal gas compartments within the implantable cell containment subsystem. Furthermore, the gas generator subsystem includes components that allow access to water for electrolysis while implanted, thereby promoting long-term implantability of the gas generator subsystem.

Abstract: Encapsulation devices, systems and methods are provided. In some embodiments, encapsulation devices for housing cells and providing various therapeutic benefits to a patient or host are provided. Encapsulation devices are provided that include a matrix or scaffold within a cell-receiving area or void, and methods of forming and preparing such a matrix are disclosed. Encapsulation devices that include channels are further provided, and the channels of the present disclosure are operable to convey fluid to internal areas of devices without restricting vascularization.

Abstract: System for gas treatment of cellular implants. The system enhances the viability and function of cellular implants, particularly those with high cellular density, for use in human or veterinary medicine. The system utilizes a miniaturized electrochemical gas generator subsystem that continuously supplies oxygen and/or hydrogen to cells within an implantable and immunoisolated cell containment subsystem to facilitate cell viability and function at high cellular density while minimizing overall implant size. The cell containment subsystem is equipped with features to allow gas delivery through porous tubing or gas-only permeable internal gas compartments within the implantable cell containment subsystem. Furthermore, the gas generator subsystem includes components that allow access to water for electrolysis while implanted, thereby promoting long-term implantability of the gas generator subsystem.

Abstract: System for gas treatment of cellular implants. The system enhances the viability and function of cellular implants, particularly those with high cellular density, for use in human or veterinary medicine. The system utilizes a miniaturized electrochemical gas generator subsystem that continuously supplies oxygen and/or hydrogen to cells within an implantable and immunoisolated cell containment subsystem to facilitate cell viability and function at high cellular density while minimizing overall implant size. The cell containment subsystem is equipped with features to allow gas delivery through porous tubing or gas-only permeable internal gas compartments within the implantable cell containment subsystem. Furthermore, the gas generator subsystem includes components that allow access to water for electrolysis while implanted, thereby promoting long-term implantability of the gas generator subsystem.

Abstract: System for gas treatment of cellular implants. The system enhances the viability and function of cellular implants, particularly those with high cellular density, for use in human or veterinary medicine. The system utilizes a miniaturized electrochemical gas generator subsystem that continuously supplies oxygen and/or hydrogen to cells within an implantable and immunoisolated cell containment subsystem to facilitate cell viability and function at high cellular density while minimizing overall implant size. The cell containment subsystem is equipped with features to allow gas delivery through porous tubing or gas-only permeable internal gas compartments within the implantable cell containment subsystem. Furthermore, the gas generator subsystem includes components that allow access to water for electrolysis while implanted, thereby promoting long-term implantability of the gas generator subsystem.

Abstract: The invention provides a composition for protecting islet cells during isolation and transplantation, as well as a method for increasing survival of islets and islet cells during harvest from the donor pancreas, isolation and culture, transportation, and transplantation into the recipient. The composition provides at least one Vitamin E homolog that, when combined with cell culture media, increases islet cell survival.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a method of preventing or retarding the progression of diabetic microvascular and macrovascular complications by chronically administering a therapeutically effective amount of gamma-tocopherol to a diabetic patient. It is further disclosed that a greater cytoprotective benefit is provided by administering a blend of gamma-tocotrienol and alpha-tocotrienol.