Closed system for extracting isolated medium

An assembly includes an adjustable dip tube that can selectively withdraw an isolated component at various heights within a vessel. The adjustable nature of the dip tube can improve the cell recovery rate as compared to conventional cell recovery assemblies. Additionally, the assembly can take advantage of the adjustable nature of the dip tube while maintaining an aseptic interior cavity of the assembly.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure relates to volume reduction assemblies.

RELATED ART

Centrifugation can be used to separate or isolate different components of a sample based on characteristics such as mass, density, and the like. In many applications, an isolated component of the sample needs to be recovered for further analysis or purification. There exists a need for a process and an apparatus that enables high yield removal of an isolated component of a sample. Additionally, there exists a need for a process and apparatus that enables removal of an isolated component of a sample without compromising the surrounding environment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments described herein can include a closed system for extracting isolated medium. The closed system can include a vessel, a cap on the vessel, and tube adapted to withdraw an isolated component within the vessel. The term “selectively withdraw” refers to preferentially withdrawing one component over another. In certain embodiments, the tube can be an adjustable tube adapted to withdraw an isolated component at various heights within the vessel. The adjustable nature of the tube can improve the cell recovery rate as compared to conventional cell recovery assemblies. In other embodiments, the tube can be fixed at a height selected so as to improve the cell recovery rate as compared to conventional cell recovery assemblies.

Additionally, embodiments of the assembly and method described herein can withdraw an isolated component within a vessel while maintaining an aseptic interior cavity of the vessel. In certain embodiments, the assembly is adapted to reduce the volume of a composition comprising a media and a biologically active substance, and recover the biologically active substance. In particular embodiments, the assembly and method can selectively withdraw the biologically active substance at various heights to improve its cell recovery rate while maintaining an aseptic environment. Embodiments of the assembly will be described in more detail below.

FIGS. 1-3include illustrations of embodiments of an assembly5. As illustrated inFIG. 1, the assembly5can include a tube10disposed in a vessel11. The vessel11can include a sidewall12defining a cavity13. The tube10can be disposed adjacent the sidewall12defining the cavity13, such as within the cavity13defined by the sidewall12. Further, the assembly5can include a cap14and a port15. As illustrated inFIG. 2, the cap14can define a bore16, such as a bore extending through the thickness of the cap14and the port15can engage the cap14adjacent the bore16. In certain embodiments, the tube10can engage the port15via the bore16in the cap. The assembly5can also include a bore17, such as a bore extending through the thickness of the cap14, and can include a port18disposed adjacent the bore17.

The vessel11can include a variety of types of vessels adapted to contain a fluid. The vessel can be adapted to withstand centrifugation. The sidewall12of the vessel11can include a sidewall of a polyhedron shape or a non-polyhedron shape. As illustrated inFIG. 2, the sidewall13can include a cylindrical sidewall. In particular embodiments, the vessel11can include a conical tube, a beaker, a flask, or the like. In more particular embodiments, the vessel11can have a volume of at least 50 mL. In particular embodiments, the vessel11can have a volume of up to 50 mL, up to 250 mL, or up to 500 mL, or even up to 1000 mL. For example, the vessel11can include a conical tube having a volume of up to 50 mL, up to 250 mL, up to 500 mL, or even up to 1000 mL.

The vessel11can comprise a closed end21and an open end22. In certain embodiments, the closed end21can be opposite, such as directly opposite, the open end22. The closed end21can be a flat end, a rounded end, a pointed end, and the like. The open end22can include an opening having a maximum width WVacross the opening in a range of 0.3 inches to 3 inches, such as 0.4 inches to 2.5 inches, or even 0.5 inches to 2 inches. The maximum width of the opening can be calculated by measuring the maximum distance from one side of the opening to another side of the opening or, when appropriate, by measuring the maximum diameter of the opening. The vessel11can have a maximum height HVmeasured from the closed end21of the vessel11to the open end22of the vessel11. In certain embodiments, the value for HVof the vessel can be at least 3 inches, such as at least 3.5 inches, or even at least 4 inches. In further embodiments, the value for HVmay be no greater than 10 inches, such as no greater than 8 inches, or even no greater than 6 inches. For example, the value for HVcan be in a range of any of the above minimum and maximum values, such as 3 to 10 inches, 3.5 to 8 inches, or 4 to 6 inches.

The open end22of the vessel11can include an attachment surface23, such as a clasping surface, a threaded surface, and the like. The attachment surface23can be disposed on an interior surface of the vessel11, an exterior surface of the vessel11, or both.

The vessel11can comprise a variety of materials, such as a metal, a ceramic, a plastic, and the like, In certain embodiments, the vessel can comprise a plastic, such as a polyester, a polyethylene terephthalate, a polyethylene, a polyvinyl chloride, a polypropylene, a polystyrene, a polyamide, a polyacrylate, a polycarbonate, a polyurethane, or any combination thereof.FIGS. 4-6include illustrations of certain embodiments of the tube10. The tube10can be a dip tube. The tube can be adapted to handle biologically active material. The tube10can comprise a rigid material, such as a plastic. In certain embodiments, the tube10can include a plastic material. The plastic material can include a polyester, a polyethylene terephthalate, a polyethylene, a polyvinyl chloride, a polypropylene, a polystyrene, a polyamide, a polyacrylate, a polycarbonate, a polyurethane, or any combination thereof. In particular embodiments, the plastic material can be free of animal-derived components. In more particular embodiments, the plastic material can be free of diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) or even free of any phthalate. Moreover, the plastic material can be sterilizable, such as sterilizable via gamma rays.

As stated previously, the closed system can include a dynamic mechanism that can adjust the tube10to selectively withdraw an isolated component from the cavity13at various heights. In certain embodiments, the adjustable nature of the tube10can be related to a dynamic mechanism disposed on an inner diameter of the tube10(or the outer diameter of the tube110, as illustrated inFIG. 18). The dynamic mechanism can include a threaded surface.

As illustrated inFIG. 4, the tube10can have an outer diameter ODTsufficient for the desired application. In certain embodiments, the value for ODTcan be at least 0.01 inches, such as at least 0.05 inches, or even at least 0.07 inches. In further embodiments, the value for ODTmay be no greater than 3 inches, such as no greater than 1 inch, or even no greater than 0.5 inches. For example, the value for ODTcan be in a range of any of the above minimum and maximum values, such as 0.01 to 3 inches, 0.05 to 1 inches, or 0.07 to 0.5 inches.

The tube10can have an inner diameter IDTsufficient for the desired application. In certain embodiments, the value for IDTcan be at least 0.01 inches, such as at least 0.04 inches, or even at least 0.08 inches. In further embodiments the value for IDTmay be no greater than 0.8 inches, such as no greater than 0.5 inches, or even no greater than 0.3 inches. For example, the value for IDTcan be in a range of any of the above minimum and maximum values, such as 0.01 to 0.8 inches, 0.04 to 0.5 inches, or 0.08 to 0.3 inches.

As illustrated inFIGS. 5 and 6, in certain embodiments, the tube10can include a multimodal inner diameter. The multimodal inner diameter of the tube can include a bimodal inner diameter including a larger inner diameter ID1and a smaller inner diameter ID2. In particular embodiments, the multimodal inner diameter can be employed to accommodate an adjustment mechanism adapted to adjust the height of the tube when in use. For example, the inner diameter ID1can include a threaded surface adapted to engage with the threaded surface of the tube port15.

In certain embodiments, the value of ID1can be at least 1.1 times greater than the value of ID2, such as at least 1.3 times greater than the value of ID2, or even at least 1.5 times greater than the value of ID2. In further embodiments, the value of ID1may be no more than 4 times greater than the value of ID2, such as no more than 3 times greater than the value of ID2, or even no more than 2.5 times greater than the value of ID2. For example the value for ID1can greater than ID2by a multiple in a range of any of the above minimum and maximum values, such as 1.1 to 4, 1.3 to 3, or 1.5 to 2.5.

In further embodiments, the value of ID1can be at least 0.08 inches, such as at least 0.12 inches, or even at least 0.15 inches. In yet further embodiments, the value of ID1may be no greater than 0.5 inches, such as no greater than 0.3 inches, or even no greater than 0.25 inches. For example the value for ID1can be in a range of any of the above minimum and maximum values, such as 0.08 to 0.5 inches, 0.12 to 0.3 inches, or even 0.15 to 0.25 inches.

In still further embodiments, the value of ID2can be at least 0.01 inches, such as at least 0.02 inches, or even at least 0.03 inches. In yet still further embodiments, the value of ID2may be no greater than 0.3 inches, such as no greater than 0.2 inches, or even no greater than 0.1 inches. For example the value for ID2can be in a range of any of the above minimum and maximum values, such as 0.01 to 0.3 inches, 0.02 to 0.2 inches, or even 0.03 to 0.2 inches.

In certain embodiments, as illustrated inFIGS. 13 to 15 and 18, the tube110can include a multimodal outer diameter. The multimodal outer diameter of the tube can include a bimodal outer diameter including a larger outer diameter OD1and a smaller outer diameter OD2. In particular embodiments, the multimodal outer diameter can be employed to accommodate an adjustment mechanism adapted to adjust the height of the tube when in use. For example, the smaller outer diameter OD2can include a threaded surface adapted to engage with the threaded surface of the tube port115.

In certain embodiments, the value of OD1can be at least 1.1 times greater than the value of OD2, such as at least 1.3 times greater than the value of OD2, or even at least 1.5 times greater than the value of OD2. In further embodiments, the value of OD1may be no more than 4 times greater than the value of OD2, such as no more than 3 times greater than the value of OD2, or even no more than 2.5 times greater than the value of OD2. For example the value for OD1can greater than OD2by a multiple in a range of any of the above minimum and maximum values, such as 1.1 to 4, 1.3 to 3, or 1.5 to 2.5.

In further embodiments, the value of OD1can be at least 0.08 inches, such as at least 0.9 inches, or even at least 0.1 inches. In yet further embodiments, the value of OD1may be no greater than 0.5 inches, such as no greater than 0.3 inches, or even no greater than 0.25 inches. For example the value for OD1can be in a range of any of the above minimum and maximum values, such as 0.08 to 0.5 inches, 0.9 to 0.3 inches, or even 0.1 to 0.25 inches.

In still further embodiments, the value of OD2can be at least 0.05 inches, such as at least 0.06 inches, or even at least 0.07 inches. In further embodiments, the value of OD2may be no greater than 0.3 inches, such as no greater than 0.2 inches, or even no greater than 0.1 inches. For example the value for OD2can be in a range of any of the above minimum and maximum values, such as 0.05 to 0.3 inches, 0.06 to 0.2 inches, or even 0.07 to 0.2 inches.

Referring toFIG. 6, the tube10can have a length LTmeasured from a first end of the tube10to an opposite second end of the tube10. In certain embodiments, the value for LTcan be at least 1 inch, such as at least 2 inches, or even at least 3 inches. In further embodiments, the value for LTmay be no greater 10 inches, such as no greater than 7 inches, or even no greater than 5 inches. For example the value for LTcan be in a range of any of the above minimum and maximum values, such as 1 to 10 inches, 2 to 7 inches, or 3 to 5 inches.

The tube10can have a first portion comprising a first end and second portion comprising an opposite second end. In certain embodiments, the first portion of the tube10can comprise the first mode having ID1and the second portion of the tube10can comprise the second mode having ID2. In particular embodiments, the first end of the tube10can have ID1and include the dynamic mechanism. In further particular embodiments, the second end of the tube10can have ID2and be adapted to first contact the biologically active material when used to handle biologically active material.

In other embodiments, the tube10can be a fixed dip tube set at a height selected to withdraw the isolated component from the cavity13at a specific height.

FIGS. 7-9include illustrations of embodiments of the cap14. The cap14can be disposed adjacent the open end of the vessel11and adapted to maintain an aseptic environment within the cavity13, even while the tube10selectively withdraws an isolated component from the cavity13at various heights.

The cap14can be removably attached to vessel11or permanently attached to the vessel11. The cap14can comprise any one or more of the materials discussed above with respect to the vessel11. The cap14can include the same material as the vessel11or a different material than the vessel11.

Referring toFIG. 8, the cap14can have a maximum width WCmeasured along the plane P. The maximum width WCcan be equal to a diameter of the cap14. In certain embodiments, the value for WCcan be at least 0.5 inches, such as at least 0.7 inches, or even at least 0.9 inches. In further embodiments, the value for WCmay be no greater than 7 inches, such as no greater than 5 inches, or no greater than 3 inches. For example, the value for WCcan be in a range of any of the above minimum and maximum values, such as 0.5 to 7 inches, 0.7 to 5 inches, or 0.9 to 3 inches.

In further embodiments, the value for WCcan be the maximum width (or diameter) of the top portion26, the maximum width (or diameter) of the bottom portion27, or the maximum widths of both the top portion26and the bottom portion27. In certain embodiments, the maximum width of the top portion26is substantially equal to or equal to the maximum width of the bottom portion27. In further embodiments, the value for WCis equal to the maximum width of the top portion26and the maximum width of the bottom portion27is less than the maximum width of the top portion26. In particular embodiments, the difference between the maximum width of the top portion26and the maximum width of the bottom portion27can be at least 0.03 inches, such as at least 0.05 inches, or even at least 0.07 inches. In further embodiments, the difference may be no greater than 0.2 inches, such as no greater than 0.1 inches, or even no greater than 0.09 inches. For example, the difference can be in a range of any of the above minimum and maximum values, such as 0.03 to 0.2 inches, 0.05 to 0.1 inches, or 0.07 to 0.09 inches.

Referring toFIG. 9, the cap14can have an interior surface24and an opposite exterior surface25, relative to the cavity13of the vessel11. In other words, when the cap14is attached to the vessel11, the interior surface24faces toward the cavity13and the opposite exterior surface25faces away from the cavity13.

In certain embodiments, the cap14can have a variety of shapes depending on the desired application. In particular embodiments, the cap14can have a circular shape. The cap can have a top portion26and a bottom portion27, relative to the closed end21of the vessel11, such that the bottom portion27of the cap14is closer to the closed end21of the tube10than the top portion26of the cap14. In certain embodiments, the top portion26and the bottom portion27can lie along a plane P where the top portion26can extend from the plane P away from the closed end21of the tube10and the bottom portion27can extend from the plane P toward the closed end21of the tube10. In particular embodiments, the open end21of the tube10also lies along the plane P and the top portion26of the cap14extends above the open end21of the tube10(away from the closed end21of the tube10) and the bottom portion27of the cap14extends below the open end22of the tube10(toward the closed end21of the tube10).

The cap14can have a height HCmeasured from the bottom edge of the bottom portion27of the cap14to the top edge of the top portion26of the cap14. In certain embodiments, the value for HCcan be at least 0.1 inches, such as at least 0.2 inches, or even at least 0.3 inches. In further embodiments, the value for HCcan be at least 1 inch, such as at least 0.7 inches, or even at least 0.5 inches. For example, the value for HCcan be in a range of any of the above minimum and maximum values, such as 0.1 to 1 inches, from 0.2 to 0.7 inches, or 0.3 to 0.5 inches.

In further embodiments, the value for HCcan be the sum of the height of the top portion26, HC1, and the height of the bottom portion27, HC2. The value for HC1can be the same as the value for HC2, greater than the value for HC2, or less than the value for HC1. In particular embodiments, the value for HC2is greater than the value for HC1by a ratio of at least 1.5:1, such as at least 2:1, or even at least 3:1. In further embodiments, the ratio may be no greater than 7 to 1, such as no greater than 6:1, or even no greater than 5:1. For example, the ratio can be in a range of any of the above minimum and maximum values, such as 1.5:1 to 7:1, 2:1 to 6:1, or 3:1 to 5:1.

In certain embodiments, an interior surface25of the cap14can include an attachment surface. The attachment surface can include one or more of a variety of attachment surfaces adapted to attach the cap14to the vessel11. In particular embodiments, the attachment surface attaches the cap14to the vessel11in a manner sufficient to maintain an aseptic environment within vessel11, such as to maintain an aseptic environment within the cavity13of the vessel11. In particular embodiments, the attachment surface can include a threaded surface and the open end22of the vessel11can include a corresponding threaded surface.

The top portion26of the cap14can have a thickness TCmeasured from the exterior surface24facing away from the cavity13of the vessel11to the interior surface25facing toward the cavity13of the vessel11. In certain embodiments, the top portion26of the cap14can define a bore structure30that includes one bore or a plurality of bores. In certain embodiments, a bore of the bore structure30can extend into the thickness TC, such as through the entire thickness TC. The one or more bores of the bore structure30can be adapted to permit a fluid connection between the cavity13and an exterior environment outside the tube10.

In certain embodiments, the bore structure30can include a bore having a maximum width WB. In particular embodiments, the value for WBcan be at least 0.05 inches, such as at least 0.1 inches, or even 0.15 inches. In further particular embodiments, the value for WBmay be no greater than 1 inch, such as no greater than 0.5 inches, or even no greater than 0.3 inches. For example, the value for WBcan be in a range of any of the above minimum and maximum values, such as 0.05 to 1 inch, 0.1 to 0.5 inches, or 0.15 to 0.3 inches.

The location of the bore or bores of the bore structure30on the top portion26of the cap14can be determined by the desired application. In certain embodiments, the bore structure30can include a center bore16located in the center of the cap, such as concentric with the cap. In particular embodiments, the center bore16can include a tube bore sized so as to engage the tube10, either directly or indirectly via a port.

Referring again toFIG. 8, the bore structure30can include an off-center bore17located a distance DCfrom the center of the cap to the center of the off-center bore17, or a distance DPfrom the perimeter of the cap to the center of the off-center bore17. In particular embodiments, the value for DCcan be at least 0.1 inches, such as at least 0.2 inches, or even at least 0.3 inches. In further particular embodiments, the value for DCmay be no greater than 1 inch, no greater than 0.7 inches, or no greater than 0.5 inches. For example, the value for DCcan be in a range of any of the above minimum and maximum values, such as 0.1 inches to 1 inch, 0.2 to 0.7 inches, or 0.3 to 0.5 inches. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the value for DPcan be at least 0.05 inches, such as at least 0.1 inches, or even at least 0.15 inches. In further particular embodiments, the value for DPmay be no greater than 0.5 inches, no greater than 0.4 inches, or no greater than 0.3 inches. For example, the value for DCcan be in a range of any of the above minimum and maximum values, such as 0.05 inches to 0.5 inches, 0.1 to 0.4 inches, or 0.15 to 0.3 inches. In particular embodiments, the off-center bore17can include a vent bore sized so as to engage a filter, either directly or indirectly via a port.

When the bore structure includes both a center bore16and an off-center bore17, the off-center bore17can have a maximum width WB2equal to, substantially equal to, greater than, or less than the maximum width WB1of the center bore16. In particular embodiments, the value for WB1may be different than the value for WB2by no greater than 30%, such as no greater than 25%, or even no greater than 20%. In further particular embodiments, the value for WB1may be different than the value for WB2by at least 5%, such as at least 10%, or even at least 15%. In yet further particular embodiments, the value for WB1can be different than the value for WB2by a percentage in a range of any of the above minimum and maximum percentages, such as 5-30%, 10-25%, or 15-20%.

FIGS. 10-12include illustrations of embodiments of a port. As stated previously, one or more bores of the bore structure30can be indirectly engaged with other members, such as a tube, a vent, a filter, and the like. As illustrated inFIG. 2, a port structure40can be included in the assembly to assist in such indirect engagement. The port structure40can facilitate a connection, such as a fluid connection, between the cavity13of the vessel11, or a structure within the cavity13of the vessel11, with an exterior environment outside the vessel11, or a structure in an exterior environment outside the vessel11. In particular embodiments, the port structure40can maintain the fluid connection between the cavity13and an exterior environment while at the same time maintaining an aseptic environment within the cavity13of the vessel11. The port structure40can include any number of ports, such as a number corresponding to the number of bores defined by the top portion26of the cap14.

The port structure40can include one or more ports, each disposed within a corresponding bore of the bore structure30. The port can be sized so as to maintain an aseptic environment within the cavity13of the vessel11. In certain embodiments, one or more ports of the port structure40can engage with a tube, a vent, or a filter. For example, the assembly5can include a tube port15and a vent port18. The tube port15can be engaged with the tube bore16and maintain a fluid connection with the tube10.

In certain embodiments, the tube port15can include a dynamic mechanism that enables extending the tube10toward the closed end21of the vessel11(i.e., further into the cavity13), or retracting the tube10away from the closed end21of the vessel11. The dynamic mechanism of the tube port15can correspond to or complement the dynamic mechanism of the tube10. For example, the dynamic mechanism of the tube10can engage with the dynamic mechanism of the tube port15to enable the adjustable nature of the tube10. In particular further embodiments, the dynamic mechanism of the tube port15can include a threaded surface that corresponds to a threaded surface of the tube10, and the threading of the tube port15can engage with the threading of the tube10to adjust the height of the tube10relative to the closed end21of the vessel11. In particular embodiments, the tube port15can be activated, such as rotated, to adjust the height of the tube10relative to the closed end21of the vessel11to selectively withdraw an isolated component from the cavity13at various heights and improve the recovery of the isolated medium as discussed below. In particular embodiments, the dynamic mechanism of the tube port15can be adapted to maintain the aseptic environment of the cavity13of the vessel11, even when the tube10is being extended or retracted as described above.

In certain embodiments, as illustrated inFIG. 2, the threaded portion of the tube port15can extend into the interior cavity. In other embodiments, as illustrated inFIGS. 14 to 17, the cap114can include a cavity for receiving the tube110. When the tube110is fully distended, the bottom of the port115comes into contact with the cap114so that it hits a dead-stop and can no long move downward. When raising the tube110, the top of the non-threaded OD1of the tube110can hit a dead-stop on the cavity of the tube cap114. These two dead-stops can maintain the tube within a set range of movement.

Further, the aseptic environment can be maintained as the cap114separates out the threaded section of tube110which moves within an internal threaded area of the cap114and the threaded section of tube110which moves out of the cap114. This way, the external threaded section of tube that engages with the port115outside the cap114never enters into the same area as the internal threaded section of tube110that extends into the internal cavity of the vessel11.

In other embodiments, the tube port can include a static mechanism that enables fixing the tube at a specific height relative to the closed end of the vessel. For example, the static mechanism of the tube can engage with the static mechanism of the tube port to fix the tube at the specific height. In more particular embodiments, the static mechanism of the tube port can engage with the tube to fix the height of the tube relative to the closed end of the vessel. In particular embodiments, the specific height of the tube relative to the closed end of the vessel can be configured to selectively withdraw an isolated component from the cavity and improve the recovery of the isolated component as discussed below. In more particular embodiments, the static mechanism of the tube port can be adapted to maintain the aseptic environment of the cavity of the vessel, even when the tube is withdrawing the isolated component as described herein.

The vent port18can be engaged with the vent bore17and maintain a fluid connection with a filter. In certain embodiments, the vent port18can selectively vent the cavity13of the vessel11at various heights. The vent port18can be engaged with, such as in fluid communication with, the filter (not illustrated), such as via the tubing connecter to the filter on one end and connected to the tubing connector of the vent port18on the other end. The filter can include a variety of filters depending on the desired application. In other embodiments, as illustrated inFIG. 16, the vent port118can be fixed at a certain height within the cavity of the vessel or may not extend into the cavity of the vessel from the cap. In particular embodiments, the vent port118can be a contiguous piece of the cap114.

Referring toFIGS. 11 and 12, a port of the port structure40can include a cap portion41sized to be disposed within a bore in the cap14. In certain embodiments, a port of the port structure40can include an interior portion42extending from the cap portion41into the cavity13of the vessel11. In further embodiments, the interior portion42of the port can be an extension of the cap portion41that extends beyond the cap14into the cavity13of the vessel11. In particular embodiments of the assembly comprising the adjustable tube, the dynamic mechanism of the tube port15can be disposed on the interior portion42of the port, or on the cap portion41and interior portion42of the port.

In certain embodiments, a port of the port structure40can include an exterior portion43extending from the cap portion41away from the cavity13of the vessel11. The exterior portion43of the port can include a tubing connector as described below. In particular embodiments, the tubing connector can include a multimodal structure. The multimodal structure can include a bi-modal structure, a tri-modal structure, and the like. In certain embodiments, each of the different modes of the multimodal structure can have a height in a range of 0.1 to 0.5 inches, such as 0.15 to 0.4 inches, such as 0.2 to 0.3 inches. In certain embodiments, each of the different modes of the multimodal structure can have a height that is different than or the same as one or more of the other modes. In more particular embodiments, the multimodal structure of the exterior portion of the port can contribute to the dynamic mechanism of the port.

In certain embodiments, the multimodal structure of the exterior portion43of the port can include a tri-modal structure where each of the modes can include a different shape. While the port is not necessarily limited to this tri-modal structure, in particular embodiments, the first mode44can include a polyhedron shape, such as a cube or a cuboid, the second mode45can include a cylindrical shape, and the third mode46can include a truncated cone shape, such as truncated at the inner diameter of the port.

In certain embodiments, the port can have a height Hp measured from the end of the interior portion to the opposite end of the exterior portion. In particular embodiments, the value for Hp can be at least 1 inch, such as at least 1.25 inches, or eve at least 1.5 inches. In further particular embodiments, the value for HPmay be no greater than 5 inches, no greater than 4 inches, or no greater than 3 inches. For example, the value for HPcan be in a range of any of the above minimum and maximum values, such as 1 to 5 inches, 1.25 to 4 inches, or 1.5 to 3 inches.

As discussed above, the engagement of the tube10with the cap14, such as via the tube bore16and tube port15, is such that the height of the tube10relative to the closed end21of the vessel11is adjustable. In certain embodiments of the assembly comprising the adjustable tube, the height of the tube10relative to the closed end21of the vessel11is adjustable while maintaining an aseptic environment within the cavity13of the vessel11. In particular embodiments, the tube10can be adjusted to be in contact with a sidewall12of the vessel11. In more particular embodiments, the tube10can be adjusted to a height of at least 0.5 inches from the closed end21of the vessel11, such as a height of at least 1 inch from the closed21end of the vessel11, or even a height of at least 2 inches from the closed end21of the vessel11. In yet further embodiments, the tube can be adjusted up to a distance of at least 1 inch, such as at least 2 inches, such as at least 3 inches from the closed end21of the vessel11.

In other embodiments, the height of the tube can be selected prior to forming the closed system and fixed at the selected height within the closed system. In particular embodiments, the tube can be fixed at a height of at least 5 cm from the closed end of the vessel, such as a height of at least 3 cm from the closed end of the vessel, or even a height of at least 1.5 cm from the closed end of the vessel.

As discussed above, the assembly5can provide an increased cell recovery rate as compared to conventional cell recovery assemblies. For example, in certain embodiments, the assembly5can have a cell recovery rate of at least 30%, such as at least 50%, or even at least 75% as measured to the Cell Recovery Test. The Cell Recovery Test measures the number of cells recovered as compared to a theoretical number of cells that could be recovered. In particular, a volume of media including a total number of cells is disposed in a vessel described herein. The volume of media is centrifuged using a centrifuge at a speed for a period of time to provide a pellet of cells disposed in the media. The tube is then adjusted to recover a maximum number of cells from the pellet. The maximum number of cells is measured and compared to the total number of cells in the volume of media.

The assembly5can be adapted for a variety of applications. In certain embodiments, the assembly5can be adapted to handle biologically active material. In certain embodiments, the assembly5is adapted to reduce the volume of a composition comprising a media and a biologically active substance, and recover the biologically active substance. In certain embodiments, the assembly5is adapted for volume reduction and recovery of cells for cell therapy treatments. In certain embodiments of the assembly comprising the adjustable tube, the assembly5is adapted to maintain an aseptic seal with the interior cavity of the vessel when adjusting the height of the dip tube.

Item 1. An assembly comprising:

a vessel having an interior cavity;

an adjustable dip tube adapted to selectively withdraw an isolated component at different heights in the vessel,

wherein the assembly is adapted to maintain an aseptic interior cavity when the adjustable dip tube is adjusted to the different heights.

Item 2. An assembly comprising:

a cap adapted to enclose a vessel, wherein the cap comprises a first bore extending through the cap;

a first port adapted to engage with the first bore; and

an adjustable dip tube adapted to engage with the first port and adapted to selectively withdraw an isolated component at different heights in the vessel.

Item 3. An assembly comprising:

a vessel having an open end, a closed end, and an interior cavity;

a cap disposed over the open end of the vessel;

a dip tube having an end coupled to the cap and an opposite end extending a majority of the length of the interior cavity of the vessel, the dip tube adapted to selectively withdraw an isolated component in the vessel,

wherein the assembly is adapted to maintain an aseptic interior cavity when the dip tube withdraws the isolated component in the vessel.

Item 4. The assembly of any one of the preceding items, wherein the assembly comprises a vessel having an interior cavity.

Item 5. The assembly of any one of the preceding items, wherein the assembly comprises a vessel having an open end having a maximum width WVin a range of 0.3 inches to 3 inches, such as 0.4 inches to 2.5 inches, or even 0.5 inches to 2 inches.

Item 6. The assembly of any one of the preceding items, wherein the assembly comprises a vessel having a height HVin a range of 3 to 10 inches, 3.5 to 8 inches, or 4 to 6 inches.

Item 7. The assembly of any one of the preceding items, wherein the vessel is a conical tube, a beaker, or a flask.

Item 8. The assembly of any one of the preceding items, wherein the dip tube is adapted to selectively withdraw an isolated component from the vessel at different heights while maintaining an aseptic interior cavity.

Item 9. The assembly of any one of the preceding items, wherein the dip tube includes a multimodal inner diameter.

Item 10. The assembly of item 9, wherein the multimodal inner diameter is a bimodal diameter.

Item 11. The assembly of item 10, wherein the dip tube includes a first end having a first inner diameter and an opposite second end including a second inner diameter, wherein the first inner diameter is greater than the second inner diameter.

Item 12. The assembly of any one of the preceding items, wherein the cap is adapted to maintain an aseptic environment within the vessel.

Item 13. The assembly of any one of the preceding items, wherein the cap comprises a first bore extending through the cap.

Item 14. The assembly of any one of the preceding items, wherein the cap comprises a first bore extending through the cap and a second bore extending through the cap.

Item 15. The assembly of item 14, wherein the first bore is a center bore and the second bore is an off-center bore.

Item 16. The assembly of any one of the preceding items, wherein the first bore is adapted to receive the dip tube.

Item 17. The assembly of any one of the preceding items, wherein the second bore is adapted to receive a vent tube.

Item 18. The assembly of item 17, wherein the vent tube is in fluid connection with a filter.

Item 19. The assembly of any one of the preceding items, wherein the assembly comprises a first port.

Item 20. The assembly of any one of the preceding items, wherein the first port is disposed within the first bore and extending through the cap.

Item 21. The assembly of any one of the preceding items, wherein the assembly comprises a first port, wherein at least a portion of the first port comprises threading, and wherein the first bore comprises threading, and wherein the threading on the first bore is adapted to engage with the threading on the first port.

Item 22. The assembly of any one of the preceding items, wherein the first port comprises a tubing connector.

Item 23. The assembly of item 22, wherein the tubing connector on the first port is disposed outside of the interior cavity of the vessel.

Item 24. The assembly of any one of the preceding items, wherein the dip tube is adapted to engage with the first port.

Item 25. The assembly of any one of the preceding items, wherein the dip tube comprises threading, and wherein the first bore comprises threading, and wherein the threading on the dip tube is adapted to engage with the threading on the first bore.

Item 26. The assembly of any one of the preceding items, wherein the assembly comprises a second port.

Item 27. The assembly of any one of the preceding items, wherein the second port is disposed within the second bore and extending through the cap.

Item 28. The assembly of any one of the preceding items, wherein at least a portion of the second port comprises threading, and wherein the second bore comprises threading, and wherein the threading on the second bore is adapted to engage with the threading on the second port.

Item 29. The assembly of any one of the preceding items, wherein the second port comprises a tubing connector.

Item 30. The assembly of any one of the preceding items, wherein the tubing connector on the second port is disposed outside of the interior cavity of the vessel.

Item 31. The assembly of any one of the preceding items, wherein the second port is adapted to vent the interior cavity of the vessel.

Item 32. The assembly of any one of the preceding items, wherein the second port is adapted to be in fluid communication with a filter.

Item 33. The assembly of any one of the preceding items s, wherein the second port is adapted to selectively vent the interior cavity of the vessel at various heights.

Item 34. The assembly of any one of the preceding items, wherein the assembly comprises a dynamic mechanism configured to allow the height of the tube to be adjusted while withdrawing the isolated component and maintaining an aseptic interior cavity.

Item 35. The assembly of any one of the preceding items, wherein the dip tube is adapted to be adjustable by a height of at least 0.5 inches, at least 1 inch, or at least 2 inches.

Item 36. The assembly of any one of the preceding items, wherein the assembly comprises a static mechanism configured to fix the height of the tube at a specific height while withdrawing the isolated component and maintaining an aseptic interior cavity.

Item 37. The assembly of any one of the preceding items, wherein the dip tube is fixed within the assembly at a height of at least 0.5 inches, at least 1 inch, or at least 2 inches.

Item 38. The assembly of any one of the preceding items, wherein the dip tube is adapted to handle biologically active material.

Item 39. The assembly of any one of the preceding items, wherein the assembly is adapted to handle biologically active material.

Item 40. The assembly of any one of the preceding items, wherein the assembly is adapted to reduce the volume of a composition comprising a media and a biologically active substance, and recover the biologically active substance.

Item 41. The assembly of any one of the preceding items, wherein the assembly is adapted for volume reduction and recovery of cells for cell therapy treatments.