Abstract: The cryopreservation of cells and tissue cultures for long term storage of cells, cell constructs or three-dimensional complex tissues assemblies is based on the use of a collagen cell carrier (CCC) having a specific composition and thickness and appropriate mechanical properties which are maintained after thawing. The collagen cell carrier provides a suitable support for the cryopreservation resulting in high survival rates after thawing and providing cells and tissue assemblies already adhered to a mechanically stable and biocompatible support. Frozen collagen carrier-cells assemblies, the frozen artificial cell constructs or three-dimensional complex tissue assemblies obtainable by the method and the use thereof after thawing are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions and methods for storing platelets to preserve the function and freshness of the platelets. More particularly, the present invention relates to the use of a preservative composition having an antiplatelet agent, an anticoagulant, and an oxygen carrier, for maintaining the freshness of platelets. Additionally, the composition may also contain an ultra-short acting broad spectrum anti-microbial agents. The preservative composition may be used to store platelets in a liquid state, a frozen state, or a freeze-dried state.

Abstract: The present invention relates to isolated haemoglobin from worms belonging to the Nereididae family and its use in cell culture medium, in preservation solutions and as artificial oxygen carrier for transfusion.

Abstract: A process for creating acellular donor soft tissue by removing contaminants such as cells by extraction using a fluid at supercritical temperature and pressures while preserving the integrity of the soft tissue. The soft tissue is maintained in contact with the fluid in a pressure vessel at supercritical temperature and pressures for a period of time and then the pressure vessel is rapidly depressurized.

Abstract: Methods of processing inactivated artificial antigen presenting cells (aAPCs) and artificial antigen presenting cells with specificity for selected antigenic peptides are described, including their generation and use in cell therapy compositions comprising activated cytotoxic T lymphocytes. Inactivated aAPCs are advantageously generated through crosslinking, such as via a photoreaction involving a psoralen derivative and UVA irradiation.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention illustrate methods of treating and preventing transplantation and side effects associated with transplantation. In particular, the present invention relates to compositions and methods for inhibition of graft rejection and promotion of graft survival. Thus, the invention relates to modulation of cellular activities, including graft rejection, promotion of graft survival, graft versus host rejection and conditions commonly associated with graft rejection. More particularly, the present invention relates to the inhibitory compounds comprising naturally occurring and man-made inhibitors of serine protease and inducers of other alpha 1-antitrypsin activities.

Abstract: Method for the isolation, expansion and preservation of cardiac stem cells from human or animal tissue biopsy samples to be employed in cell transplantation and functional repair of the myocardium or other organs. Cells may also be used in gene therapy for treating cardiomyopathies, for treating ischemic heart diseases and for setting in vitro models to study drugs.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a polymer article having the shape of a curved polyhedron comprising only concave curvature faces and convex curvature edges or by also having concave curvature faces, in which a part of the concave curvature face has been replaced by a flat face, and convex curvature edges optionally comprising imbedded material.

Abstract: The invention provides a composition for cold storage of cells which includes a population of isolated stem cells, a cell medium, and isolated trophic factors, as well as devices having a plurality of the trophic factors.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a soluble receptor variant of TREM-1. More particularly, present invention relates to methods of modulating an immune response by administering variants of TREM-1.

Abstract: Method for the isolation, expansion and preservation of cardiac stem cells from human or animal tissue biopsy samples to be employed in cell transplantation and functional repair of the myocardium or other organs. Cells may also be used in gene therapy for treating cardiomyopathies, for treating ischemic heart diseases and for setting in vitro models to study drugs.

Abstract: This document discloses electroporation vessels, electrocompetent cells that have been aliquoted and frozen in electroporation vessels, and a number of other apparatuses, kits, and methods for electroporation. Some embodiments of electroporation vessels described herein may include a pair of opposing walls that are downwardly angled toward one another in a gap between two electrode surfaces. Further embodiments of devices and methods described herein may eliminate the need for an end user to transfer competent cells from a capped tube to electroporation cuvette, thereby saving time and producing less waste.

Abstract: A method for preserving a preparation of insulin-secreting cells includes the step of placing the preparation of insulin-secreting cells in contact with a biological medium, the biological medium including a nutritive product including albumin, and further includes a peptone or a mixture of peptones in sufficient quantity to preserve the insulin-secreting cells.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to devices and methods for detecting cellular products using detection particles having product-specific detection reagents and having a characteristic spectral feature. In particular, devices and methods are provided for measuring secreted cellular products including cytokines. Detection substrates, include microwells having product-specific capture reagents thereon or comprising hydrophobic membranes are described having greater capability to detect products from individual cells in a mixture of heterogeneous cells. With the use of multiple detection particles, multiple cellular products can be detected in a single well. Additionally, using the inherent spectral properties of detection particles, no enzymatic reactions are needed to visualize a secreted product, thereby increasing the sensitivity, reproducibility and ease of use.

Abstract: Certain embodiments disclosed herein include, but are not limited to, at least one of compositions, methods, devices, systems, kits, or products regarding rejuvenation or preservation of germ cells or gametes. Certain embodiments disclosed herein include, but are not limited to, methods of modifying germ cells or gametes, or methods of administering modified germ cells or gametes to at least one biological tissue.

Abstract: Disclosed is a benzamide derivative represented by formula (1). In the formula, k1 represents an integer from 0-4, m1 represents an integer from 1-100, and n1 represents an integer from 1-6. In addition, R1 represents a hydrocarbon group with 8-22 carbon atoms bonded via an oxygen atom; R2 represents H or a hydrocarbon group with 1-22 carbon atoms bonded via an oxygen atom; R3 represents H or a hydrocarbon group with 1-22 carbon atoms bonded via an oxygen atom; and R2 and R3 are not H at the same time.

Abstract: Methods and composition for maintenance of cardiomyocytes are provided. For example, in certain aspects methods including culturing the cardiomyocytes in a medium essentially free of serum or containing dialyzed serum to maintain long-term purity. In further aspects, methods for modulation of cardiomyocytes may be provided.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are new immunotherapy methods that involve the isolation of cancer stem cells from tumor tissue and use of the cells either directly or indirectly through proteins or other factors associated with the cells to activate antigen presenting cells. The activated antigen presenting cells are useful as a therapy against the tumor. Also disclosed herein are novel methods of isolating and characterizing cancer stem cells and producing individual cancer stem cell lines. Dendritic cell lines are also disclosed herein.

Abstract: The invention provides isolated stem cells of non-embryonic origin that can be maintained in culture in the undifferentiated state or differentiated to form cells of multiple tissue types. Also provided are methods of isolation and culture, as well as therapeutic uses for the isolated cells in cardiac indications.

Abstract: Adoptive immune cells obtained by a method including (a) obtaining mammalian antigen-presenting associated cells; (b) culturing the resulting cells from step (a) in a culture liquid contained in a culture vessel coated with a sugar chain-containing polymer; and (c) detaching the cells from step (b) by shaking the culture vessel without treating the cells with an enzyme and without using a cell detaching tool. A method for treating a malignant tumor, type I diabetes, an atopic allergic disease or an infection, by administering the adoptive immune cells to a patient. A pharmaceutical composition for treating a malignant tumor, type I diabetes, an atopic allergic disease or an infection, including the adoptive immune cells and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

Abstract: A rapid method for the quantitation of various live cell types is described. This new cell fluorescence method correlates with other methods of enumerating cells such as the standard plate count, the methylene blue method and the slide viability technique. The method is particularly useful in several applications such as: a) quantitating bacteria in milk, yogurt, cheese, meat and other foods, b) quantitating yeast cells in brewing, fermentation and bread making, c) quantitating mammalian cells in research, food and clinical settings. The method is especially useful when both total and viable cell counts are required such as in the brewing industry. The method can also be employed to determine the metabolic activity of cells in a sample. The apparatus, device, and/or system used for cell quantitation is also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention provides methods for treating pathological conditions associated with an undesirable inflammatory component. The invention is generally directed to reducing inflammation by administering cells that have one or more of the following effects in an injured subject: interact with splenocytes, preserve splenic mass, increase proliferation of CD4+ and CD8+ T-cells, increase IL-4 and IL-10, decrease IL-6 and IL-1?, and increase M2:M1 macrophage ratio at the site of injury. The invention is also directed to drug discovery methods to screen for agents that modulate the ability of the cells to have these effects. The invention is also directed to cell banks that can be used to provide cells for administration to a subject, the banks comprising cells having desired potency for achieving these effects.

Abstract: The present disclosure describes mammalian pluripotent embryonic-like stem cells (ELSCs) isolated from corneal limbal tissue, a non-embryonic tissue. The ELSCs of the present disclosure are capable of proliferating in an in vitro culture, maintain the potential to differentiate into cells of endoderm, mesoderm, and ectoderm lineage in culture, and are capable of forming embryoid-like bodies when placed in suspension culture. Thus, these cells possess multi-lineage differentiation potential and self-renewing capability. ELSCs may be a promising therapeutic tool, and may provide new therapeutic alternatives for various diseases, conditions, and injuries.

Abstract: An apparatus and processes for aseptically dispensing live mammalian cells into sterile, flexible bags in a non-sterile atmosphere. The method includes the steps of: providing the cells suspended in a liquid; providing a plurality of sterile flexible bags fluidly connected to a main line by a plurality of branch lines of sterile flexible tubing; evacuating air from the flexible bags by applying a vacuum to the open end of the main line; preventing fluid flow through all branch lines except that of one bag to be filled; dispensing a desired volume of cell suspension into the open end of the main line; and introducing sufficient sterile purging gas under pressure into open end of the main line to drive into the bag any of the dispensed volume remaining in the main line or branch line of filled bag. Cells can be cryogenically preserved in the filled bags.

Abstract: A kit (1) for storing cells or tissues. The kit (1) comprises a frame (7) having an opening therein and a peripheral wall surrounding the opening. Also provided is a sealable receptacle (2) for receiving the frame (7) and for receiving a liquid medium (6). A section of the sealable receptacle (2) being formed of a resilient member (5) for permitting access to the interior of the receptacle (5) by a penetrating element and subsequently forming a seal after withdrawal of the penetrating element.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention relate to methods and compositions for the expansion of hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) self renewal. The microRNA-125a is a master control of HSC self-renewal. Increased expression of mir-125a increased HSC self-renewal by 6-30 folds. Increased expression of mir-125a can be used to expand HSC ex vivo and in vivo.

Abstract: A method of repairing diseased or dysfunctional organs or of establishing a model system of a disease state is provided. For repairing diseased organs, the method involves engraftment of cells from healthy tissue of the diseased or dysfunctional organ admixed with gel-forming biomaterials and nutrient medium, signaling molecules and extracellular matrix components that can be made insoluble rapidly upon transplantation to form a graft. In this way, the graft mimics the complexity of the native microenvironment with a minimum number of components that allow transplantation of cells to successfully engraft, expand and then rebuild part or the entirety of the diseased or dysfunctional organ. In the case of using grafting methods for establishing a disease model, diseased cells may be transplanted in the biomaterials and into experimental hosts.

Abstract: A cryopreservation device for storing reproductive biological material is provided. The device comprises an elongate first member includes an elongate first member extending between a distal end and a proximal end, a first bulge portion disposed around a circumference of the first member, and a trough defined within the first member, the trough being configured to receive a reproductive biological sample thereon. A second member includes a second member with a lumen defined therethrough. The second member is configured to slide over the first member and the inner diameter of the second member is similar to an outer diameter of the bulge portion to form a seal between the first and second members.

Abstract: The present invention provides modified platelets having a reduced platelet clearance and methods for reducing platelet clearance. Also provided are compositions for the preservation of platelets. The invention also provides methods for making a pharmaceutical composition containing the modified platelets and for administering the pharmaceutical composition to a mammal to mediate hemostasis.

Abstract: A method of inhibiting graft rejection includes isolating Hepatic Stellate Cells from a mammal liver, activating the isolated Hepatic Stellate Cells, and administering a combination of Hepatic Stellate cells and a graft to a mammal.

Abstract: A natural spinal disk including adjacent vertebral structures is removed from a deceased donor, rinsed in normal saline, preserved in a cryopreservative solution, and then frozen by gradually decreasing the temperature using liquid nitrogen or similar method. The implant may be thawed in normal saline solution and then implanted in a patient in need of a vertebral disk replacement.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to amniotic fluid derived renal progenitor cells positive for CD24 and OB-cadherin and subpopulations thereof, as well as methods of isolating and uses thereof. The invention is further directed to preventing and treating kidney damage with a population of amniotic fluid derived c-kit positive stem cells.

Abstract: The present invention relates to cryopreserved cell cultures, methods for cryopreserving cells and methods for conducting cellular assays on such cells. A cryopreserved cell culture of the invention comprises a container having at least a surface which is coated with poly-lysine and frozen cells supported on the surface.

Abstract: An apparatus for vitrifying a biological specimen includes a cap member, a tubular plunger, and a specimen chamber. The cap member includes a stem portion integrally formed with a receiving portion. The receiving portion has a disc-like shape and includes an outer surface. The outer surface includes a first skirt member comprised of a heat-sealable material. The first skirt member is attached along a circumferential portion of the outer surface. The specimen chamber has an open first end portion, a closed second end portion, and a cavity extending between the first and second end portions. The cavity is defined by oppositely disposed inner and outer surfaces. The specimen chamber further includes a second skirt member comprised of heat-sealable material. The second skirt member is attached along a circumferential portion of the outer surface.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for determining the ideal time for and outcome of reproductive health procedures including in vitro fertilization by establishing a correlation between the successful outcome of said procedure and the spectra of a body fluid obtained using a chosen analytical modality for a population of patients, acquiring for a patient a spectrum of the body fluid of the patient using said chosen modality.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a method of isolation, pooling and further culturing of Mesenchymal Stem cells (MSC) for clinical application. Present invention also discloses the method of establishing Master Cell bank, followed by Working Cell Bank from which the final therapeutic composition referred to as Investigational Product/Investigational Medicinal Product comprising of allogenic bone marrow-derived MSC is formulated for clinical applications.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to pluripotent fetal stem cells derived from chorionic villus, amniotic fluid, and placenta and the methods for isolating, expanding and differentiating these cells, and their therapeutic uses such as manipulating the fetal stem cells by gene transfection and other means for therapeutic applications.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions and methods for storing platelets to preserve the function and freshness of the platelets. More particularly, the present invention relates to the use of a preservative composition having an antiplatelet agent, an anticoagulant, and an oxygen carrier, for maintaining the freshness of platelets. Additionally, the composition may also contain an ultra-short acting broad spectrum anti-microbial agents. The preservative composition may be used to store platelets in a liquid state, a frozen state, or a freeze-dried state.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions and methods for storing platelets to preserve the function and freshness of the platelets. More particularly, the present invention relates to the use of a preservative composition having an antiplatelet agent, an anticoagulant, and an oxygen carrier, for maintaining the freshness of platelets. Additionally, the composition may also contain an ultra-short acting broad spectrum anti-microbial agents. The preservative composition may be used to store platelets in a liquid state, a frozen state, or a freeze-dried state.

Abstract: Provided is a method for protecting stem cells in a clinical graft against destruction induced by the complement system by adding to the graft at least one factor capable of inhibiting the complement. Also provided is a method for protecting stem cells in a clinical graft against destruction induced by the complement system using a factor capable of inhibiting the complement.

Abstract: Provided herein is a placental product comprising an immunocompatible chorionic membrane. Such placental products can be cryopreserved and contain viable therapeutic cells after thawing. The placental product of the present invention is useful in treating a patient with a tissue injury (e.g. wound or burn) by applying the placental product to the injury. Similar application is useful with ligament and tendon repair and for engraftment procedures such as bone engraftment.

Abstract: Three-dimensional physiological matrices, methods, apparatus and kits for the expedited design, testing and evaluation of oncological remedies are provided. Key aspects of the inventions include matrices, and especially gel matrices, comprising one or more physiological fibers, which are adapted and arranged to provide conditions which permit behaviors, such as the movement of cells away from the margins of samples of target tissue through the matrix, to be evaluated in a manner that produces data useful for evaluating the oncological status and characteristics of the cells. In a further key aspect, the invention permits the in vitro testing and analysis of one or more conventional, experimental or theoretical therapies with respect to specific target tissues or cells. Among such therapies are therapeutic compounds and combinations thereof, radiation therapies, combinations of therapeutic compounds and radiation and numerous other possible therapies.

Abstract: An automated system and method of cryopreservation and reanimation of oocytes, embryos, or blastocysts is disclosed. One or more oocytes or embryos are positioned in a processing container, the processing container being configured to allow fluid to flow into and out of the processing container, where two or more fluids flow into and out of the processing container with oocytes or embryos therein. The temperature of the fluid may be controlled in the processing container according to predetermined requirements. The flowing of the fluids may be controlled by a central controller adapted to control one or more valves.

Abstract: The invention provides methods for treating pathological conditions that can be improved by providing angiogenesis. The invention is generally directed to provide angiogenesis by administering cells that express and/or secrete one or more pro-angiogenic factors. The invention is also directed to drug discovery methods to screen for agents that modulate the ability of the cells to express and/or secrete one or more pro-angiogenic factors. The invention is also directed to cell banks that can be used to provide cells for administration to a subject, the banks comprising cells having desired levels of expression and/or secretion of one or more pro-angiogenic factors.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for removing neoplastic cells from a mixed cellular composition, which is outside of a living organism, by using a virus which selectively infect and kill neoplastic cell. A variety of viruses can be used in this method to remove neoplastic cells for different purposes, for example, to purge hematopoietic stem cells prior to transplantation. Also provided are compositions prepared according to this method, and kits comprising a combination of viruses which are useful in this invention.

Abstract: Methods for the diagnosis of visceral, cutaneous and canine leishmaniasis in a subject suspected of being infected with the parasitic protozoa Leishmania is disclosed. Disclosed are antibody-capture enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) for the detection of antibodies to Leishmania parasite soluble antigens and antigen-capture ELISAs for the detection of Leishmania parasite soluble antigens in host samples. Also disclosed are immunodiagnostic kits for the detection of Leishmania parasite circulating antigens or IgM and IgG antibodies in a sample from subject having visceral, cutaneous or canine leishmaniasis. In these methods and kits, detection may be done photometrically or visually. The methods and kits also allow the visualization of Leishmania amastigotes or promastigotes in a sample.

Abstract: The presently disclosed subject matter provides populations of stem cells that are purified from bone marrow, peripheral blood, and/or other sources. Also provided are methods of using the stem cells for treating tissue and/or organ damage in a subject.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for improving post-thaw survival of cryopreserved biological material comprising applying hydrostatic pressure to said biological material; keeping the said biological material at the hydrostatic pressure for a predetermined time period; releasing the hydrostatic pressure; and freezing the said biological material using any protocol applicable thereto.

Abstract: A system combining a clonogenic differentiation assay with an instrument-based ATP bioluminescence proliferation assay to produce a standardized colony-forming stem and progenitor cell potency assay is provided.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for the prophylaxis and treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections are disclosed herein. More specifically the present invention discloses describes an autologous dendritic cell (DC) vaccine product derived by culturing a patient's monocytes with granulocyte macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and interferon alpha 2b (IFN-?), loading the DC with a mixture of five lipopeptides of Gag, Nef and Pol HIV antigens, and, optionally activating the DC with lipopolysaccharide (LPS).