Abstract: A device includes a housing. The housing can define a duct having a central axis. A first loading surface can extend into the duct toward the central axis, while a second loading surface can extend into the duct toward the central axis. A first driver and a second driver can be situated within the duct along the central axis. The first driver can abut the second driver. A first spring biases the first driver away from the first loading surface, thereby causing the first driver to apply a first loading force to the second driver. A second spring applies a second loading force to the second driver, along a common direction with the first loading force, to bias the second driver away from the second loading surface, with the first spring and second spring operating in parallel on the second driver.

Abstract: A device includes a housing. The housing can define a duct having a central axis. A first loading surface can extend into the duct toward the central axis, while a second loading surface can extend into the duct toward the central axis. A first driver and a second driver can be situated within the duct along the central axis. The first driver can abut the second driver. A first spring biases the first driver away from the first loading surface, thereby causing the first driver to apply a first loading force to the second driver. A second spring applies a second loading force to the second driver, along a common direction with the first loading force, to bias the second driver away from the second loading surface, with the first spring and second spring operating in parallel on the second driver.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to improved methods for tissue engineering including tissue transplantation, augmentation and regeneration. More particularly, the present invention provides a method for the generation of donor vascularized tissue suitable for use in tissue transplantation, augmentation and/or repair. The present invention further enables the use of a support matrix in the generation of an anatomical construct comprising the donor vascular tissue. The support matrix may be devised such that it has dimensions of a size and shape adapted to simulate those of tissue to be transplanted, augmented and/or repaired. In addition to its use in tissue repair, the methods and support matrix of the present invention may also find application as a means for delivering a desirable gene product to a subject. The method and support matrix of the present invention is conveniently be made available in the form of a kit, for use generally in the field of tissue engineering.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to improved methods for tissue engineering including tissue transplantation, augmentation and regeneration. More particularly, the present invention provides a method for the generation of donor vascularized tissue suitable for use in tissue transplantation, augmentation and/or repair. The present invention further enables the use of a support matrix in the generation of an anatomical construct comprising the donor vascular tissue. The support matrix may be devised such that it has dimensions of a size and shape adapted to simulate those of tissue to be transplanted, augmented and/or repaired. In addition to its use in tissue repair, the methods and support matrix of the present invention may also find application as a means for delivering a desirable gene product to a subject. The method and support matrix of the present invention is conveniently be made available in the form of a kit, for use generally in the field of tissue engineering.