Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a method for seeding cells on to a support. In particular, the method relates to a method for seeding cells onto a porous hydrophobic support. The method utilizes centrifugal forces to uniformly guide cell seeding into the support with no loss in viability.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a method for seeding cells on to a support. In particular, the method relates to a method for seeding cells onto a porous hydrophobic support. The method utilizes centrifugal forces to uniformly guide cell seeding into the support with no loss in viability.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a method for seeding cells on to a support. In particular, the method relates to a method for seeding cells onto a porous hydrophobic support. The method utilizes centrifugal forces to uniformly guide cell seeding into the support with no loss in viability.

Abstract: An overtube for use with an endoscopic surgical instrument. In various embodiments, the overtube may comprise a substantially flexible helically wound continuous member forming a series of helical coils that define a hollow passage sized to receive a portion of the endoscopic surgical instrument therethrough. The coils may be configured to selectively interlock with each other to stiffen the overtube. An actuation system may be employed to steer the overtube and selectively stiffen it. Some embodiments include a second substantially flexible helically wound member that may be selectively wound between the first substantially flexible helically wound member or segments thereof.

Abstract: Devices and methods for transgastric surgery are provided. In one aspect, a surgical device is provided that includes an elongate member having a proximal end, a distal end, and an inner lumen extending through at least a portion thereof that is adapted to receive a fluid flow therethrough. A selectively expandable member is coupled to the distal end of the elongate member and is adapted to receive fluid from the elongate member. A mesh is disposed around at least a portion of the expandable member. The mesh has a pre-shaped configuration, and at least a portion of the mesh is adapted to be operatively positioned to occlude a portion of a hollow organ.

Abstract: Devices and methods useful for transluminally accessing a body cavity are disclosed. In one embodiment, a transluminal access device adapted to be inserted through a body lumen is provided and can include an inner shaft having an opening at its distal end and adapted to be positioned adjacent to an inner wall of a body lumen. The inner shaft can include one or more sealing mechanisms, such as one or more seals with suction ports formed thereon for isolating a portion of a body lumen. The isolated portion may be sterilized and serve as an access point or otomy site for penetrating the wall of the body lumen to access a body cavity.

Abstract: A medical device having an elongate flexible tube extending between a proximal end and a a distal end. The device has a lumen extending between the proximal and distal ends. The lumen contains therapeutic cells and is sized to receive a plunger. The plunger is movable through at least a portion of the lumen. The device further includes an actuator at the proximal end of the elongate flexible tube, and a delivery member at the distal end of the elongate flexible tube.

Abstract: This idea represents a method for incorporation of a therapeutic molecule, preferably a protein or a growth factor, into a biodegradable scaffold, specifically one that is made of a foam nonwoven composite. The process utilizes a solvent preferably tertiary butanol to facilitate the infiltration of the particles of the therapeutic agent into the porous matrix of the scaffold. In the case of small molecules, such as a p38 kinase inhibitor, the drug is dissolved directly in sterile filtered t-butanol and a given amount is pipetted aseptically onto the pre-sterilized scaffold. The solution is readily adsorbed into the polymer matrix. The solution is readily frozen to allow minimal interaction with the polymer scaffold thereby protecting the scaffold's internal matrix. The solvent is then aseptically removed by lyophilization.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to biocompatible devices suitable for increasing cellular HIF-1 ? protein levels. In particular, the present invention relates to an implant comprising a biocompatible support loaded with at least one pharmaceutical agent capable of increasing cellular HIF-1 ? protein levels to promote vascularization at or near the implant site. Vascularization of the implanted support results in enhanced survival of cells optionally incorporated within the support. Methods for treating a disease or injury via implanting the support of the present invention are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a method for seeding cells on to a support. In particular, the method relates to a method for seeding cells onto a porous hydrophobic support. The method utilizes centrifugal forces to uniformly guide cell seeding into the support with no loss in viability.

Abstract: This invention provides devices designed to effectively deliver multiple biological entities in combination for tissue engineering. In particular, the present invention provides devices capable of delivering cells or clusters of cells, such as islets of Langerhans, in combination with a therapeutic compound, such as an angiogenic growth factor, for the purpose of transplantation. The devices of the present invention are composed of at least two compartments that are designed independently and processed separately in order to accommodate different requirements of the biological entities. The compartments of the present device can be combined prior to or at the time of implantation, such that the therapeutic released from one compartment provides some benefit to cells hosted by another compartment to promote or improve their proliferation, differentiation, survival, or functionality.