Abstract: A device, system and method for axenically culturing and harvesting cells and/or tissues, including bioreactors and fermentors. The device is preferably disposable but nevertheless may be used continuously for a plurality of consecutive culturing/harvesting cycles prior to disposal of same. This invention also relates to batteries of such devices which may be used for large-scale production of cells and tissues. According to preferred embodiments of the present invention, the present invention is adapted for use with plant cell culture.

Abstract: A disposable device and method for axenically culturing and harvesting cells and/or tissue in consecutive cycles. The device consist of a sterilizable transparent and/or translucent disposable container which may be at least partially filled with a suitable sterile biological cell and/or tissue culture medium and/or axenic inoculant and/or sterile air and/or required other sterile additives. The container has means for removing excess air and/or waste gases therefrom, and means for introducing the inoculant and/or culture medium and/or additives therein. The device also has at least one air inlet, and preferably a plurality thereof, for introducing sterile air into the device. The device is characterised by having a reusable harvesting means comprising suitable flow control means for enabling harvesting of at least a portion of the medium containing cells and/or tissue when desired, thereby enabling the device to be used continuously for at least one subsequent consecutive culturing/harvesting cycle.

Abstract: A disposable device and method for axenically culturing and harvesting cells and/or tissue in consecutive cycles. The device consists of a sterilisable disposable container which may be partially filled with a suitable sterile biological cell and/or tissue culture medium. The container has means for removing excess air and/or waste gases therefrom, and means for introducing inoculant and/or culture medium and/or additives therein. A reusable harvesting means enables harvesting of at least a portion of the medium containing cells and/or tissue when desired, thereby enabling the device to be used continuously for at least one subsequent consecutive culturing/harvesting cycle. The portion of medium containing cells and/or tissue remaining from a previously harvested cycle may serve as inoculant for a next culture and harvest cycle.