Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods of cryopreserving cells and cryopreserved cells prepared according to the methods. In specific embodiments, the method comprises combining cells with a cross-linked hydrogel matrix in particulate form, the matrix comprising a polyglycan cross-linked to a polypeptide and subjecting the combination to cryopreservation conditions. In further embodiments, the invention provides cell-seeded compositions comprising cells and a cross-linked bioactive hydrogel matrix in particulate form, the matrix comprising a polyglycan cross-linked to a polypeptide, wherein the composition has been subjected to cryopreservation conditions. The cryopreserved cells can be thawed and used in methods of treatment without the need for intervening steps to make the cells viable for in vivo use.

Abstract: Implant assemblies and methodologies provide immuno-protection for implanted allografts, xenografts, and isografts. The assemblies and methodologies establish an improved boundary between the host and the implanted cells. The boundary has a pore size, an ultimate strength, and a metabolic transit value that assures the survival of the cells during the critical ischemic period and afterward. The boundary allows the fabrication and clinical use of implant assemblies and methodologies that can carry enough cells to be of therapeutic value to the host, yet occupy a relatively small, compact area within the host.

Abstract: A device for implantation in a host having a material at an interface between the host and the device, said material having a conformation which results in growth of vascular structures by the host close to the interface.

Abstract: A device for implantation in a host having a material at an interface between the host and the device, said material having a conformation which results in growth of vascular structures by the host close to the interface.

Abstract: A device for implantation in a host having a material at an interface between the host and the device, said material having a conformation which results in growth of vascular structures by the host close to the interface.

Abstract: A device for implantation in a host having a material at an interface between the host and the device, said material having a conformation which results in growth of vascular structures by the host close to the interface.

Abstract: A device for implantation in a host having a material at an interface between the host and the device, said material having a conformation which results in growth of vascular structures by the host close to the interface.

Abstract: Improved Implant assemblies and methodologies provide immuno-protection for implanted allografts, xenografts, and isografts. The assemblies and methodologies establish an improved chamber for holding the implanted cells. The chambers include first and second wall elements and an intermediate sealing element. The first and second wall elements overlie an open area in the sealing member to form a chamber for holding cells for implantation. A sealed region is created between the wall elements and the sealing element body to close the chamber. In one arrangement, the sealed region is created by means of a sonic weld made while the implanted cells are present in the chamber. In another arrangement, the sealed region is created by means of applying an external force to compress the peripheral edges of the wall elements and the sealing element together while the implanted cells are present in the chamber.

Abstract: A method for implanting cells is disclosed which employs a chamber having a wall forming porous boundary between the host and implanted cells. According to the method, a given number of cells (N) is placed within the porous boundary of a given area (A) such that the quantity A/N is less than about 200 .mu.m.sup.2 /cell. The porous boundary has a pore size, an ultimate strength, and a metabolic transit value that assures the survival of the cells during the critical ischemic period and afterward.

Abstract: Improved Implant assemblies and methodologies provide immuno-protection for implanted allografts, xenografts, and isografts. The assemblies and methodologies establish an improved chamber for holding the implanted cells. The chambers include first and second wall elements and an intermediate sealing element. The first and second wall elements overlie an open area in the sealing member to form a chamber for holding cells for implantation. A sealed region is created between the wall elements and the sealing element body to close the chamber. In one arrangement, the sealed region is created by means of a sonic weld made while the implanted cells are present in the chamber. In another arrangement, the sealed region is created by means of applying an external force to compress the peripheral edges of the wall elements and the sealing element together while the implanted cells are present in the chamber.

Abstract: Implant assemblies and methodologies provide immuno-protection for implanted allografts, xenografts, and isografts. The assemblies and methodologies establish a boundary between the host and the implanted cells. The boundary has a pore size, an ultimate strength, and a metabolic transit value that assures the survival of the cells during the critical ischemic period and afterward. The boundary allows the fabrication and clinical use of implant assemblies and methodologies that can carry enough cells to be of therapeutic value to the host, yet occupy a relatively small, compact area within the host.