CELL SUSPENSION TREATMENT APPARATUS

A cell suspension treatment apparatus has a circulation circuit and a filling liquid supply source that supplies a filling liquid to the circulation circuit. The circulation circuit includes a hollow fiber membrane filter, a reservoir, a pump that is provided on a downstream side of the reservoir and on an upstream side of the hollow fiber membrane filter, and a valve that is provided on the downstream side of the reservoir and on an upstream side of the pump. The filling liquid supply source is connected to a portion of the circulation circuit between the first valve and the pump. After the concentrated cell suspension is stored in the reservoir, in a state where the valve is closed and the pump is driven, the filling liquid supply source starts supplying the filling liquid to the circulation circuit to push the cell suspension, which remains in a portion of the circulation circuit from the pump to the inlet port of the reservoir, to flow toward the reservoir by the filling liquid.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a cell suspension treatment apparatus for concentrating cells.

BACKGROUND ART

In the related art, cell suspension treatment for concentrating cells using a circulation circuit including at least a reservoir, a pump, and a hollow fiber membrane filter has been performed (refer to, for example, Patent Document 1). As the concentration treatment proceeds, the concentration of cells in the cell suspension in the reservoir is increased. Then, when the concentration of the cell suspension in the reservoir reaches a predetermined concentration, the cell concentration treatment is completed.

PRIOR ART DOCUMENT

Patent Document

Patent Document 1: J Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2015-42167 A

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

Incidentally, when the concentration treatment is completed, many cells are present in the reservoir, but cells remain also in the circulation circuit.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to collect cells remaining in a circulation circuit after a concentration treatment is completed, in the concentration treatment of cells using the circulation circuit including at least a reservoir, a pump, and a hollow fiber membrane filter.

Means for Solving the Problems

In order to solve the technical problem, according to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cell suspension treatment apparatus that performs a concentration treatment on a cell suspension, and the cell suspension treatment apparatus includes a circulation circuit in which the cell suspension is circulated; and a first filling liquid supply source that supplies a filling liquid to the circulation circuit, in which the circulation circuit includes a hollow fiber membrane filter that filters and concentrates the cell suspension, a reservoir that includes an inlet port and an outlet port, and stores the cell suspension, a pump that is provided on a downstream side of the reservoir in a circulation direction of the cell suspension and on an upstream side of the hollow fiber membrane filter in the circulation direction, and circulates the cell suspension, and a first valve that is provided on the downstream side of the reservoir in the circulation direction and on an upstream side of the pump in the circulation direction, the first filling liquid supply source is connected to a portion of the circulation circuit between the first valve and the pump, and after the concentrated cell suspension is stored in the reservoir, in a state where the first valve is closed and the pump is driven in a forward direction, the first filling liquid supply source starts supplying the filling liquid to the circulation circuit to push the cell suspension, which remains in a portion of the circulation circuit from the pump to the inlet port of the reservoir, to flow toward the reservoir in the circulation direction by the filling liquid.

Further, according to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cell suspension treatment apparatus that treats a cell suspension, and the cell suspension treatment apparatus includes a pillar portion; an arm portion that extends from the pillar portion in a lateral direction; a cell treatment circuit that is provided on the pillar portion, and includes a circulation circuit that includes at least a storage bag that stores the cell suspension, a pump, and a hollow fiber membrane filter, and concentrates the cell suspension; and a plurality of hooks which are provided on the arm portion in a state of being arranged side by side in an extending direction of the arm portion, and by which the storage bag and a plurality of bag included in the cell treatment circuit and connected to the circulation circuit are suspended.

Furthermore, according to still another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cell suspension treatment apparatus that perform a concentration treatment and a washing treatment of cells, and the cell suspension treatment apparatus includes a circulation circuit that includes a reservoir that stores a cell suspension, a hollow fiber membrane filter that filters and concentrates the cell suspension, a first connection tube that connects an outlet port of the reservoir to an inlet port of the hollow fiber membrane filter, and a second connection tube that connects an outlet port of the hollow fiber membrane filter to an inlet port of the reservoir; a first branch tube that branches from the first connection tube and is connected to a cell suspension supply source; a second branch tube that branches from the second connection tube and is connected to a replacement liquid supply source; a roller pump that is provided in the first or second connection tube; a first pinch device that pinches the first branch tube; and a second pinch device that pinches the second branch tube, in which when the cell suspension is supplied from the cell suspension supply source to the circulation circuit, the second pinch device pinches and closes the second branch tube, and when the replacement liquid is supplied from the replacement liquid supply source to the circulation circuit, the first pinch device pinches and closes the first branch tube.

Effects of the Invention

According to the present invention, it is possible to collect cells remaining in a circulation circuit after a concentration treatment is completed, in the concentration treatment of cells using the circulation circuit including at least a reservoir, a pump, and a hollow fiber membrane filter.

MODE(S) FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

A cell suspension treatment apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention is a cell suspension treatment apparatus that performs a concentration treatment on a cell suspension, and the cell suspension treatment apparatus includes a circulation circuit in which the cell suspension is circulated; and a first filling liquid supply source that supplies a filling liquid to the circulation circuit, in which the circulation circuit includes a hollow fiber membrane filter that filters and concentrates the cell suspension, a reservoir that includes an inlet port and an outlet port, and stores the cell suspension, a pump that is provided on a downstream side of the reservoir in a circulation direction of the cell suspension and on an upstream side of the hollow fiber membrane filter in the circulation direction, and circulates the cell suspension, and a first valve that is provided on the downstream side of the reservoir in the circulation direction and on an upstream side of the pump in the circulation direction, the first filling liquid supply source is connected to a portion of the circulation circuit between the first valve and the pump, and after the concentrated cell suspension is stored in the reservoir, in a state where the first valve is closed and the pump is driven in a forward direction, the first filling liquid supply source starts supplying the filling liquid to the circulation circuit to push the cell suspension, which remains in a portion of the circulation circuit from the pump to the inlet port of the reservoir, to flow toward the reservoir in the circulation direction by the filling liquid.

According to the aspect, it is possible to collect cells remaining in the circulation circuit after the concentration treatment is completed, in the concentration treatment of cells using the circulation circuit including at least the reservoir, the pump, and the hollow fiber membrane filter.

The cell suspension treatment apparatus may further include a first optical sensor that is provided near the inlet port of the reservoir, and detects a color and/or turbidity of the cell suspension, and in this case, when the first optical sensor detects a change in color and/or turbidity of the cell suspension, the pump is stopped, and the first filling liquid supply source stops supplying the filling liquid to the circulation circuit.

The first filling liquid supply source may be a filling liquid supply source for priming the circulation circuit and the hollow fiber membrane filter.

The cell suspension treatment apparatus may further include a second filling liquid supply source that supplies a filling liquid to the circulation circuit; and a second valve that is provided on a downstream side of the hollow fiber membrane filter in the circulation direction and on an upstream side of the reservoir in the circulation direction. In this case, the second filling liquid supply source is connected to a portion of the circulation circuit between the pump and the second valve, and after the concentrated cell suspension is stored in the reservoir, in a state where the second valve is closed and the pump is driven in a reverse direction, the second filling liquid supply source starts supplying the filling liquid to the circulation circuit to push the cell suspension, which remains in a portion of the circulation circuit from the outlet port of the reservoir to the pump, to flow toward the reservoir in a direction opposite to the circulation direction by the filling liquid.

The cell suspension treatment apparatus may further include a second optical sensor that is provided near the outlet port of the reservoir, and detects a color and/or turbidity of the cell suspension, and in this case, when the second optical sensor detects a change in color and/or turbidity of the cell suspension, the pump is stopped, and the second filling liquid supply source stops supplying the filling liquid to the circulation circuit.

The second filling liquid supply source may be a filling liquid supply source for priming the hollow fiber membrane filter positioned between the pump and the second valve by supplying the filling liquid into the hollow fiber membrane filter.

A cell suspension treatment apparatus according to another aspect of the present invention is a cell suspension treatment apparatus that treats a cell suspension, and the cell suspension treatment apparatus includes a pillar portion; an arm portion that extends from the pillar portion in a lateral direction; a cell treatment circuit that is provided on the pillar portion, and includes a circulation circuit that includes at least a storage bag that stores the cell suspension, a pump, and a hollow fiber membrane filter, and concentrates the cell suspension; and a plurality of hooks which are provided on the arm portion in a state of being arranged side by side in an extending direction of the arm portion, and by which the storage bag and a plurality of bag included in the cell treatment circuit and connected to the circulation circuit are suspended.

According to the aspect, it is possible to appropriately dispose a plurality of necessary container with respect to the circulation circuit while making an installation space compact, in the cell suspension treatment using the circulation circuit including at least the reservoir, the pump, and the hollow fiber membrane filter.

At least one of the plurality of hooks may be movable in the extending direction of the arm portion.

At least one of the plurality of hooks may be provided on the arm portion via a weight sensor.

The cell suspension treatment apparatus may further include a drain pan that is disposed immediately below the bag suspended by each of the plurality of hooks.

The cell treatment circuit may be provided on a front surface of the pillar portion.

The cell suspension treatment apparatus may further include a plurality of casters; and a handle for a user to operate when the user moves the cell suspension treatment apparatus via the plurality of casters. In this case, the handle may function as a guard that extends to a side of a tip end of the arm portion to avoid contact between the user and the bag on an outermost side.

The plurality of bags may include a filling liquid bag that supplies a filling liquid for priming the circulation circuit to the circulation circuit, a waste liquid bag that collects the filling liquid after priming, and a replacement liquid bag that supplies a replacement liquid for washing cells of the concentrated cell suspension stored in the storage bag, to the circulation circuit.

A cell suspension treatment apparatus according to still another aspect of the present invention is a cell suspension treatment apparatus that perform a concentration treatment and a washing treatment of cells, and the cell suspension treatment apparatus includes a circulation circuit that includes a reservoir that stores a cell suspension, a hollow fiber membrane filter that filters and concentrates the cell suspension, a first connection tube that connects an outlet port of the reservoir to an inlet port of the hollow fiber membrane filter, and a second connection tube that connects an outlet port of the hollow fiber membrane filter to an inlet port of the reservoir; a first branch tube that branches from the first connection tube and is connected to a cell suspension supply source; a second branch tube that branches from the second connection tube and is connected to a replacement liquid supply source; a roller pump that is provided in the first or second connection tube; a first pinch device that pinches the first branch tube; and a second pinch device that pinches the second branch tube, in which when the cell suspension is supplied from the cell suspension supply source to the circulation circuit, the second pinch device pinches and closes the second branch tube, and when the replacement liquid is supplied from the replacement liquid supply source to the circulation circuit, the first pinch device pinches and closes the first branch tube.

According to the aspect, in the concentration treatment and the washing treatment of cells using the circulation circuit including at least the reservoir, the pump, and the hollow fiber membrane filter, the pulsation of the cell suspension flowing in the circulation circuit can be suppressed.

At least one of the first and second branch tubes may extend from a branch point of the first or second branch tube in an orthogonal direction with respect to a flow direction of the cell suspension passing through the branch point.

At least one of the first and second branch tubes may extend from a branch point of the first or second branch tube in an obliquely rearward direction with respect to a flow direction of the cell suspension passing through the branch point.

At least one of the first and second branch tubes may extend from a branch point of the first or second branch tube in an upward direction with respect to a flow direction of the cell suspension passing through the branch point.

Each of the first and second pinch devices may be a pinch valve or forceps.

The first and second branch tubes may include a plurality of indicators indicating a plurality of pinch positions.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, unnecessarily detailed description may be omitted. For example, a detailed description of a well-known matter and a repeated description of substantially the same configuration may be omitted. This is to avoid unnecessary redundancy of the following description and to facilitate understanding of those skilled in the art.

Note that the inventor(s) provides the accompanying drawings and the following description in order for those skilled in the art to fully understand the present invention, and does not intend to limit the subject matter described in the claims by the accompanying drawings and the following description.

FIGS. 1 to 9illustrate the appearance of a cell suspension treatment apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Specifically,FIG. 1is a front perspective view of the cell suspension treatment apparatus.FIG. 2is a front perspective view of the cell suspension treatment apparatus viewed from a different viewpoint.FIG. 3is a rear perspective view of the cell suspension treatment apparatus.FIG. 4is a rear perspective view of the cell suspension treatment apparatus viewed from a different viewpoint.FIG. 5is a front view of the cell suspension treatment apparatus.FIG. 6is a rear view of the cell suspension treatment apparatus.FIG. 7is a right side view of the cell suspension treatment apparatus.FIG. 8is a left side view of the cell suspension treatment apparatus.FIG. 9is a plan view of the cell suspension treatment apparatus.

Note that an X-Y-Z orthogonal coordinate system is illustrated in the drawings, but this is for facilitating understanding of the embodiments of the invention and does not limit the invention. The X-axis direction is a front-rear direction of the cell suspension treatment apparatus, the Y-axis direction is a left-right direction, and the Z-axis direction is a height direction. The expression “left-right” is based on a front view of the cell suspension treatment apparatus.

A cell suspension treatment apparatus10according to the present embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 1 to 9is an apparatus for performing a concentration treatment and a washing treatment on cells as the cell suspension treatment. Note thatFIGS. 1 to 9illustrate the cell suspension treatment apparatus10in a state before a bag, a tube, or the like used for the cell suspension treatment is attached, that is, the main body of the cell suspension treatment apparatus10. The “cell suspension” refers to a suspension of cells such as platelets and megakaryocytes in a liquid medium. The embodiment of the present invention does not limit the cells and the medium.

In addition, the “concentration” treatment refers to a treatment in which a cell suspension is filtered to remove a medium component such that the concentration of the cells in the cell suspension is increased. In addition, the “washing” treatment refers to a treatment of substituting a medium component of the concentrated cell suspension with a replacement liquid such as physiological saline, physiological saline with a buffering effect, Ringer's solution such as bicarbonate Ringer's solution (bicanate infusion solution; manufactured by Otsuka Pharmaceutical Factory, Inc.), a solution obtained by adding, to the bicarbonate Ringer's solution, a blood preservation solution (ACD-A solution; manufactured by Terumo Corporation), ACD-A solution and albumin such as human serum albumin preparation (HAS; manufactured by CSL Behring), or ACD-A solution, human serum albumin preparation, and an antioxidant.

As illustrated inFIGS. 1 to 9, the cell suspension treatment apparatus10according to the present embodiment includes a base portion12, a pillar portion14provided on the base portion12, and first and second arm portions16A and16B provided on the pillar portion14.

The base portion12of the cell suspension treatment apparatus10is a desk-shaped structure, and includes a plurality of casters18. The plurality of casters18allow the entire cell suspension treatment apparatus10to be movable. In addition, a handle20for a user to operate the cell suspension treatment apparatus10that is moved through the plurality of casters18is provided on a left side portion of the base portion12. As a result, it is possible to easily change the layout of the cell suspension treatment apparatus10.

The pillar portion14of the cell suspension treatment apparatus10is a pillar-shaped structure that is provided on the base portion12, and extends in an upward direction (Z-axis direction) from the base portion12. As will be described in detail later, a cell treatment circuit for the treatment of cells, specifically, a cell concentration and washing circuit for the concentration treatment and the washing treatment of cells is provided on the front surface of the pillar portion14.

The first and second arm portions16A and16B of the cell suspension treatment apparatus10extend from the upper portion of the pillar portion14in a lateral direction, in the horizontal direction (Y-axis direction) in the present embodiment. The first arm portion16A extends in the right direction, and the second arm portion16B extends in the left direction. Although details will be described later, the first and second arm portions16A and16B are configured such that a plurality of bags to be used for the concentration treatment and the washing treatment of cells can be suspended.

Hereinafter, the cell concentration and washing circuit for the concentration treatment and the washing treatment of cells will be described.

FIG. 10is a front view of the cell suspension treatment apparatus in a state where an example of the cell concentration and washing circuit is set.FIG. 11is a schematic configuration diagram of an example cell of the cell concentration and washing circuit.

As illustrated inFIG. 11, a cell concentration and washing circuit30includes a circulation circuit32in which the cell suspension is circulated during the concentration treatment and the washing treatment.

The circulation circuit32includes a hollow fiber membrane filter34that filters the cell suspension, a storage bag36that stores the concentrated cell suspension (concentrated solution), a first connection tube38that connects an outlet port36bof the storage bag36to an inlet port34aof the hollow fiber membrane filter34, and a second connection tube40that connects an outlet port34bof the hollow fiber membrane filter34to an inlet port36aof the storage bag36.

The hollow fiber membrane filter34is a device that filters and concentrates the cell suspension circulated in the circulation circuit32, and is exchangeably attached to the front surface of the pillar portion14of the cell suspension treatment apparatus10. The hollow fiber membrane filter34includes the inlet port34ainto which the cell suspension flows, the outlet port34bthrough which the cell suspension concentrated by filtration flows out, and a filtrate discharge port34cthrough which filtrate generated by filtration is discharged. The filtrate discharge port34cof the hollow fiber membrane filter34is connected to a filtrate tank44through a connection tube42.

As illustrated inFIG. 1, the filtrate tank44is mounted on a truck46disposed in the base portion12of the cell suspension treatment apparatus10. By moving the truck46, the filtrate tank44containing the filtrate can be moved to an appropriate place.

Further, in the present embodiment, the hollow fiber membrane filter34includes an introduction port34dthrough which a filling liquid for priming is introduced to the inside of the hollow fiber membrane filter. The introduction port34dis connected to a filling liquid bag50that supplies the filling liquid for priming, through a connection tube48.

The filling liquid bag50is a container which contains a filling liquid such as physiological saline, physiological saline with a buffering effect, Ringer's solution such as bicarbonate Ringer's solution (bicanate infusion solution; manufactured by Otsuka Pharmaceutical Factory, Inc.), a solution obtained by adding, to the bicarbonate Ringer's solution, a blood preservation solution (ACD-A solution; manufactured by Terumo Corporation), ACD-A solution and albumin such as human serum albumin preparation (HAS; manufactured by CSL Behring), or ACD-A solution, human serum albumin preparation, and an antioxidant, and the filling liquid bag50is made of, for example, a resin material, and has flexibility. In addition, although details will be described later, the filling liquid bag50is suspended from the first arm portion16A.

The storage bag36is a container (reservoir) that stores a cell suspension during the concentration treatment and the washing treatment of cells, is made of, for example, a resin material, and has flexibility. Further, although details will be described later, the storage bag36is suspended from the second arm portion16B. Furthermore, the storage bag36includes the inlet port36ainto which the cell suspension from the hollow fiber membrane filter34flows, and the outlet port36bthrough which the cell suspension flows out toward the hollow fiber membrane filter34.

The first connection tube38is a flexible tube made of a transparent resin material, and connects the outlet port36bof the storage bag36to the inlet port34aof the hollow fiber membrane filter34.

The first connection tube38branches at two points, that is, two branch tubes38aand38bare connected. One branch tube38ais connected to a container which contains a culture solution that has been cultured, that is, a culture solution tank (cell suspension supply source)52which supplies the cell suspension stored in the storage bag36to the circulation circuit32, which will be described in detail later. The culture solution tank52is disposed outside the cell suspension treatment apparatus10. The other branch tube38bis connected to a filling liquid bag54that supplies a filling liquid for priming to the circulation circuit32, which will be described in detail later.

The filling liquid bag54is a container which contains a filling liquid such as physiological saline, physiological saline with a buffering effect, Ringer's solution such as bicarbonate Ringer's solution (bicanate infusion solution; manufactured by Otsuka Pharmaceutical Factory, Inc.), a solution obtained by adding, to the bicarbonate Ringer's solution, a blood preservation solution (ACD-A solution; manufactured by Terumo Corporation), ACD-A solution and albumin such as human serum albumin preparation (HAS; manufactured by CSL Behring), or ACD-A solution, human serum albumin preparation, and an antioxidant, and the filling liquid bag54is made of, for example, a resin material, and has flexibility. In addition, although details will be described later, the filling liquid bag54is suspended from the second arm portion16B.

Similarly to the first connection tube38, the second connection tube40is a flexible tube made of a transparent resin material, and connects the outlet port34bof the hollow fiber membrane filter34to the inlet port36aof the storage bag36.

The second connection tube40branches at two points, that is, two branch tubes40aand40bare connected. One branch tube40ais connected to a replacement liquid bag (replacement liquid supply source)56that supplies a replacement liquid for washing the cells in the concentrated cell suspension, that is, a replacement liquid for replacing the medium component of the cell suspension, to the circulation circuit32. The other branch tube40bis connected to a waste liquid bag58that collects the filling liquid after priming, which will be described in detail later.

The replacement liquid bag56is a container which contains a replacement liquid such as physiological saline, physiological saline with a buffering effect, Ringer's solution such as bicarbonate Ringer's solution (bicanate infusion solution; manufactured by Otsuka Pharmaceutical Factory, Inc.), a solution obtained by adding, to the bicarbonate Ringer's solution, a blood preservation solution (ACD-A solution; manufactured by Terumo Corporation), ACD-A solution and albumin such as human serum albumin preparation (HAS; manufactured by CSL Behring), or ACD-A solution, human serum albumin preparation, and an antioxidant, and the replacement liquid bag56is made of, for example, a resin material, and has flexibility. In addition, although details will be described later, the replacement liquid bag56is suspended from the first arm portion16A.

The waste liquid bag58is a container that collects the filling liquid after priming, is made of, for example, a resin material, and has flexibility. In addition, although details will be described later, the waste liquid bag58is suspended from the second arm portion16B.

The cell concentration and washing circuit30including the circulation circuit32includes a plurality of pumps60to64, a plurality of valves66to78, a plurality of pressure sensors80to84, and a plurality of flow rate sensors86to88in order to perform the concentration treatment and the washing treatment of cells.

The circulation circuit32of the cell concentration and washing circuit30is provided with the pump60and three valves66to70.

The pump60in the circulation circuit32is a pump mainly for circulating the cell suspension in the circulation circuit32, for example, a roller pump. The pump60is arranged on the downstream side of the storage bag36in a circulation direction CD of the cell suspension, and on the upstream side of the hollow fiber membrane filter34in the circulation direction CD, that is, is provided in the first connection tube38. The pump60is attached to the front surface of the pillar portion14of the cell suspension treatment apparatus10.

The three valves66to70in the circulation circuit32are closed pinch valves, for example, pinching the first and second connection tubes38and40. In the three valves, the two valves66and68are provided in the first connection tube38. Specifically, the valve66is disposed between the branch points of the two branch tubes38aand38b, and the valve68is disposed between the storage bag36and the branch point of the branch tube38a. The remaining valve70is provided in the second connection tube40, and is specifically disposed between the branch point of the branch tube40band the storage bag36. In addition, these three valves66to70are attached to the front surface of the pillar portion14of the cell suspension treatment apparatus10.

The pump62provided outside the circulation circuit32is a pump for sending the filtrate of the hollow fiber membrane filter34to the filtrate tank44, and is, for example, a roller pump. The pump62is provided in the connection tube42that connects the filtrate discharge port34cof the hollow fiber membrane filter34to the filtrate tank44. The pump62is attached to the front surface of the pillar portion14of the cell suspension treatment apparatus10.

The pump64provided outside the circulation circuit32is a pump for sending the replacement liquid in the replacement liquid bag56toward the circulation circuit32, and is, for example, a roller pump. The pump64is provided in the branch tube40aconnected to the second connection tube40. The pump64is attached to a right side surface of the pillar portion14of the cell suspension treatment apparatus10.

The valve72provided outside the circulation circuit32is a valve that interrupts the connection between the circulation circuit32and the culture solution tank52, and is, for example, a pinch valve. The valve72is provided in the branch tube38aconnected to the first connection tube38. The valve72is attached to the front surface of the pillar portion14of the cell suspension treatment apparatus10.

The valve74provided outside the circulation circuit32is a valve that interrupts the connection between the circulation circuit32and the filling liquid bag54, and is, for example, a pinch valve. The valve74is provided in the branch tube38bconnected to the first connection tube38. The valve74is attached to the front surface of the pillar portion14of the cell suspension treatment apparatus10.

The valve76provided outside the circulation circuit32is a valve that interrupts the connection between the circulation circuit32and the waste liquid bag58, and is, for example, a pinch valve. The valve76is provided in the branch tube40bconnected to the second connection tube40. The valve76is attached to the left side surface of the pillar portion14of the cell suspension treatment apparatus10.

The valve78provided outside the circulation circuit32is a valve that interrupts the connection between the hollow fiber membrane filter34and the filling liquid bag50, and is, for example, a pinch valve. The valve78is provided in the connection tube48that connects the introduction port34dof the hollow fiber membrane filter34to the filling liquid bag50. The valve78is attached to the front surface of the pillar portion14of the cell suspension treatment apparatus10.

The pressure sensor80is a sensor for detecting a pressure of the cell suspension flowing into the hollow fiber membrane filter34, and is provided in the first connection tube38. Specifically, the pressure sensor80is disposed between the pump60and the hollow fiber membrane filter34. The pressure sensor80is disposed on the front surface of the pillar portion14of the cell suspension treatment apparatus10.

The pressure sensor82is a sensor for detecting a pressure of the cell suspension flowing out from the hollow fiber membrane filter34, and is provided in the second connection tube40. Specifically, the pressure sensor82is disposed between the hollow fiber membrane filter34and the branch point of the branch tube40a. The pressure sensor82is disposed on the front surface of the pillar portion14of the cell suspension treatment apparatus10.

The pressure sensor84is a sensor for detecting a pressure of the filtrate discharged from the hollow fiber membrane filter34, and is provided in the connection tube42that connects the hollow fiber membrane filter34to the filtrate tank44. Specifically, the pressure sensor84is disposed between the hollow fiber membrane filter34and the pump62. The pressure sensor84is disposed on the front surface of the pillar portion14of the cell suspension treatment apparatus10.

The flow rate sensor86is a sensor, for example, a clamp-on type sensor, for detecting a flow rate of the cell suspension flowing out from the hollow fiber membrane filter34, that is, a flow rate of the concentrated cell suspension, and is provided in the second connection tube40. Specifically, the flow rate sensor86is disposed between the branch point of the branch tube40aand the branch point of the branch tube40b. The flow rate sensor86is attached to the front surface of the pillar portion14of the cell suspension treatment apparatus10.

The flow rate sensor88is a sensor, for example, a clamp-on type sensor, for detecting a flow rate of the filtrate discharged from the hollow fiber membrane filter, and is provided in the connection tube42that connects the hollow fiber membrane filter34to the filtrate tank44. Specifically, the flow rate sensor88is disposed between the pump62and the filtrate tank44. The flow rate sensor88is attached to the front surface of the pillar portion14of the cell suspension treatment apparatus10.

As illustrated inFIG. 10, the plurality of components of the cell concentration and washing circuit30described above are disposed on the front surface of (partially on the side surface of) the pillar portion14of the cell suspension treatment apparatus10. In addition, the replacement liquid bag56, the filling liquid bag50, the waste liquid bag58, the filling liquid bag54, and the storage bag36are provided side by side in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction). As a result, the user can confirm the cell concentration and washing circuit30at a glance when positioned to face the front surface of the cell suspension treatment apparatus10. In addition, from another viewpoint, since the components of the cell concentration and washing circuit30and the bags are not present on the rear surface of the pillar portion14illustrated inFIG. 6, the cell suspension treatment apparatus10can be installed in a state where the rear surface of the pillar portion14is close to the wall.

Specifically, as illustrated inFIG. 10, the replacement liquid bag56, the filling liquid bag50, the waste liquid bag58, the filling liquid bag54, and the storage bag36are suspended from the first and second arm portions16A and16B. Therefore, the first and second arm portions16A and16B include a plurality of hooks90and92by which the bags are suspended. Two hooks90are provided side by side in the extending direction (Y-axis direction) in the first arm portion16A, and two hooks90and one hook92are provided side by side in the extending direction (Y-axis direction) in the second arm portion16B.

In the case of the present embodiment, as illustrated inFIG. 10, a beam94extending in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction) is provided in the first and second arm portions16A and16B. The beam94is provided with a rail96that extends in the left-right direction and supports the plurality of hooks90such that the plurality of hooks90are movable in the left-right direction. As a result, the distance between the bags suspended by the plurality of hooks90can be easily adjusted.

Unlike the other hooks90, the hook92is not movably provided on the beam94. As illustrated inFIG. 12, the hook92is attached to a left end of the beam94via a weight sensor98. This is because the weight of the storage bag36suspended by the hook92is measured by the weight sensor98, and the storage bag36is heavier and larger than other bags (for example, 50 liters). Similarly to the hook92, in order to fix the position of each of the plurality of hooks90, a lock lever100for fixing the hook at a predetermined position of the rail96is provided in each of the hooks90.

As illustrated inFIG. 10, the largest storage bag36is suspended from the tip end of the second arm portion16B via the hook92. That is, the storage bag36is positioned on the outermost side. Therefore, there is a possibility that the user on the move comes into contact with the storage bag36. In order to avoid the contact, for example, as illustrated inFIGS. 1 and 2, the handle20extends from the base portion12to the side of the tip end of the second arm portion16B. As a result, the handle20is deployed outside the storage bag36, and the handle20functions as a guard that avoids contact between the storage bag36and the user.

As described above, since the plurality of bags used for the concentration treatment and the washing treatment of cells are suspended and supported, an installation space (footprint) of the cell suspension treatment apparatus10can be made compact (compared to a case where the bag is disposed in a laid state or a case where the plurality of containers containing the cell suspension and the like are not the bags).

As illustrated inFIGS. 1 and 2, a drain pan102is disposed below the hooks90and92, that is, below the plurality of bags such as the storage bag36suspended by the hooks90and92and the cell concentration and washing circuit30. Specifically, the drain pan102has a shape (that is, a bracket shape) that surrounds the pillar portion14except for the rear surface thereof in plan view (as viewed in the Z-axis direction), and is detachably placed on the base portion12. As a result, the drain pan102can receive the cell suspension leaking from the storage bag36, the replacement liquid bag56, or the cell concentration and washing circuit30. As a result, falling of the leaking cell suspension onto the floor in the room where the cell suspension treatment apparatus10is installed is suppressed. Since the drain pan102is detachable from the base portion12of the cell suspension treatment apparatus10, the drain pan102can be washed at a place different from the installation place of the cell suspension treatment apparatus10. In addition, if a plurality of drain pans102are prepared, the cell suspension treatment apparatus10can be used at a high operation rate.

The concentration treatment and the washing treatment of cells using the cell concentration and washing circuit30are automatically performed.

FIG. 13is a block diagram illustrating a control system of the cell suspension treatment apparatus.

As illustrated inFIG. 13, the cell suspension treatment apparatus10has a controller120that controls the plurality of pumps60to64and the plurality of valves66to78. The controller120is, for example, a control board on which a CPU is mounted. A storage device122and a touch screen display124as a user interface are connected to the controller120. As illustrated inFIG. 10, the touch screen display124is attached to the front surface of the pillar portion14of the cell suspension treatment apparatus10.

According to a program stored in the storage device122such as a memory or a hard disk, the controller120executes control necessary for the concentration treatment and the washing treatment of cells on the plurality of pumps60to64and the plurality of valves66to78. In addition, the controller120controls the plurality of pumps60to64and the plurality of valves66to78based on detection results of the plurality of pressure sensors80to84, the plurality of flow rate sensors86to88, and the weight sensor98. Then, the controller120presents information such as the detection results of the plurality of sensors, and the control that is currently being executed (treatment step) to the user via the touch screen display124.

Hereinafter, the concentration treatment and the washing treatment of cells executed by the controller120will be described with reference toFIGS. 14A to 14K.

First, before the concentration treatment and the washing treatment of cells by the controller120are started, the setting of the cell concentration and washing circuit30is performed by the user as a preliminary preparation.

As the preliminary preparation, as illustrated inFIG. 10, the plurality of connection tubes38,40,42, and48and the plurality of pressure sensors80to84are attached to the plurality of pumps60to64, the plurality of valves66to78, and the plurality of flow rate sensors86and88on the pillar portion14of the cell suspension treatment apparatus10by the user. Since the plurality of connection tubes and pressure sensor are used singly, the connection tubes and the pressure sensors are replaced each time the cell treatment is performed.

Next, as illustrated inFIG. 10, the filling liquid bag50and the replacement liquid bag56are suspended from the first arm portion16A via the hooks90by the user. In addition, the waste liquid bag58, the filling liquid bag54, and the storage bag36are suspended from the second arm portion16B via the hooks90and92. At this time, the storage bag36and the waste liquid bag58are empty.

Subsequently, as illustrated inFIGS. 10 and 11, the plurality of bags36,50,54,56, and58are connected to the circulation circuit32by the user. In addition, the branch tube38aconnected to the first connection tube38is connected to the culture solution tank52located outside the cell suspension treatment apparatus10. Further, the connection tube42connected to the filtrate discharge port34cof the hollow fiber membrane filter34is connected to the filtrate tank44.

Then, the user sets conditions relating to the concentration treatment and the washing treatment of cells, for example, the rotation speed of the pump60to64, the concentration time, the washing time, and the like via the touch screen display124.

When the preliminary preparation is completed and the user inputs a start instruction to touch screen display124, the controller120executes, as a first treatment step, a treatment step of washing the inside of the hollow fiber membrane in hollow fiber membrane filter34. Therefore, as illustrated inFIG. 14A, the controller120opens only the valves74and76, and activates only the pump60. In the drawing, the pump indicated by the broken line is in a stopped state, and the valve indicated by the broken line is in a closed state.

During the execution of the first treatment step, the filling liquid in the filling liquid bag54flows into the hollow fiber membrane filter34through the inlet port34a, and the filling liquid flowing out from the outlet port34bof the hollow fiber membrane filter34enters the waste liquid bag58. Thus, the inside of the hollow fiber membrane is washed.

Next, as a second treatment step, the controller120executes a treatment step of washing a space outside the hollow fiber membrane in the hollow fiber membrane filter34, that is, a space between the hollow fiber membrane and a cartridge accommodating the hollow fiber membrane (space through which the filtrate having passed through the hollow fiber membrane flows). Therefore, as illustrated inFIG. 14B, the controller120opens only the valve78, and activates only the pump62. As a result, the filling liquid in the filling liquid bag50flows into the cartridge of the hollow fiber membrane filter34through the introduction port34d, and the filling liquid that has passed through the space in the cartridge flows out from the filtrate discharge port34cand enters the filtrate tank44. Thus, the inside of the cartridge of the hollow fiber membrane filter (the outside of the hollow fiber membrane) is washed.

Next, as a third treatment step, the controller120executes an air bleeding treatment step of a circuit from the hollow fiber membrane filter34to the storage bag36(that is, the second connection tube40). Therefore, as illustrated inFIG. 14C, the controller120opens only the valves70and74, and activates only the pump60. As a result, the filling liquid in the filling liquid bag54flows into the hollow fiber membrane filter34, and the filling liquid flowing out from the hollow fiber membrane filter34enters the storage bag36. Thus, air is removed from the circuit from the hollow fiber membrane filter34to the storage bag36(the circuit is filled with the filling liquid).

As a fourth treatment step subsequent to the third treatment step, the controller120executes an air bleeding treatment step of a circuit from the storage bag36to the culture solution tank52. Therefore, as illustrated in FIG.14D, the controller120opens only the valves68,70,72, and74, and activates only the pump60. As a result, the filling liquid in the filling liquid bag54passes through the hollow fiber membrane filter34and enters the storage bag36, and the filling liquid in the storage bag36enters the culture solution tank52. As a result, air is removed from the circuit from the storage bag36to the culture solution tank52(the circuit is filled with the filling liquid).

Next, as a fifth treatment step, the controller120executes a treatment step of supplying the cell suspension (culture solution) to be treated by the cell concentration and washing circuit30to the storage bag36. Therefore, as illustrated inFIG. 14E, the controller120opens only the valves66,70, and72, and activates only the pump60. As a result, the cell suspension in the culture solution tank52passes through the hollow fiber membrane filter34without being filtered, and is stored in the storage bag36.

As a sixth treatment step subsequent to the fifth treatment step, the controller120subsequently executes a treatment step of supplying the cell suspension (culture solution) to the storage bag36. At this time, the cell suspension is supplied to the storage bag36while being filtered by the hollow fiber membrane filter34. Therefore, as illustrated inFIG. 14F, the controller120opens only the valves66,70, and72, and activates only the pumps60and62. As a result, the cell suspension in the culture solution tank52is filtered by the hollow fiber membrane filter34, and the filtered cell suspension is stored in the storage bag36.

In the sixth treatment step, the branch tube40aconnected to the second connection tube40functions as an accumulator that suppresses pulsation (pressure fluctuation) of the cell suspension from the culture solution tank52toward the storage bag36.

Specifically, when the two pumps60and62are operated, pulsation occurs in the cell suspension. As a countermeasure, the branch tube40aconnected to the second connection tube40is pinched and closed by a pinch device such as forceps130as illustrated inFIG. 15in order to use the branch tube40aas the accumulator. As a result, a portion132from the branch point to the closing position in the branch tube40ais used as the accumulator. That is, the air in the accumulator132absorbs the pressure fluctuation of the cell suspension, and thereby the pressure fluctuation is suppressed.

An effect obtained when the branch tube40aof the second connection tube40functions as the accumulator132will be described.

FIG. 16is a graph illustrating pressure fluctuations of the cell suspension during supply to the circulation circuit in a case where an accumulator is present (example) and in a case where an accumulator is not present (comparative example).

The pressure illustrated inFIG. 16is the pressure at the inlet port34aof the hollow fiber membrane filter34, that is, the pressure detected by the pressure sensor80. As illustrated inFIG. 16, the pressure fluctuates in both the case where the accumulator is present (example) and the case where the accumulator is not present (comparative example), but the fluctuation range is larger in the comparative example. When the 3σ value (3 sigma value) is calculated, the 3σ value is about 1.84 kPa in the example, and is about 2.65 kPa in the comparative example. That is, the degree of pressure fluctuation of the cell suspension is smaller in the example.

By such an accumulator132, pulsation (pressure fluctuation) of the cell suspension flowing from the culture solution tank52toward the storage bag36is suppressed, and thereby the damage of the cells in the cell suspension due to the pulsation is suppressed.

In order to suppress the inflow of the cell suspension into the accumulator132(that is, the branch tube40a), the branch tube40aextends from the branch point in an obliquely rearward direction with respect to the flow direction of the cell suspension passing through the branch point, as illustrated in a region A ofFIG. 10.

In addition, the pinch device that pinches and closes the branch tube40ain order to cause the branch tube40ato function as the accumulator132is not limited to the forceps130illustrated inFIG. 15. The pinch device may be, for example, a pinch valve.

In a case where the pinch device is the forceps130, it is possible to change the portion of the branch tube40ato be pinched and closed by the forceps130. Therefore, even if the pulsation mode of the cell suspension is different, when the forceps130pinch and close the appropriate portion of the branch tube40a, the pulsation can be appropriately suppressed. Preferably, a scale may be added to the branch tube40a, for example, in order to record the portion of the branch tube40apinched by the forceps130. As a result, the branch tube40aincludes a plurality of indicators indicating a plurality of pinch positions to be pinched by the forceps130. By recording the portion of the branch tube40athat is pinched by the forceps130, substantially identical cell suspension treatment can be performed with high reproducibility.

When a predetermined amount of the cell suspension is stored in the storage bag36by the sixth treatment step, that is, when the weight sensor98detects a predetermined weight corresponding to the predetermined amount, the controller120ends the sixth treatment step, and starts a seventh treatment step. As illustrated inFIG. 14G, in the seventh treatment step, the cell suspension is concentrated by filtration through the hollow fiber membrane filter34while being circulated in the circulation circuit32. Therefore, the controller120opens only the valves66,68, and70, and activates only the pumps60and62. As a result, the cell suspension in the storage bag36is filtered by the hollow fiber membrane filter34, and the concentrated cell suspension by the filtration returns to the storage bag36. During this seventh treatment step, the weight of the storage bag36is reduced by the concentration of the cell suspension. The filtrate is sent to the filtrate tank44.

When the cell suspension reaches a predetermined concentration by the seventh treatment step, that is, when the weight sensor98detects a predetermined weight corresponding to the predetermined concentration, the controller120ends the seventh treatment step, and starts an eighth treatment step. As illustrated inFIG. 14H, in the eighth treatment step, the cell suspension is circulated in the circulation circuit32without being filtered by the hollow fiber membrane filter34. This eighth treatment step is executed for several minutes, for example one minute. Therefore, the controller120opens only the valves66,68, and70, and activates only the pump60.

When the eighth treatment step is completed, the controller120stops the pump60to end the circulation of the cell suspension in the circulation circuit32. At this time, the concentrated cell suspension, that is, cells remain in the circulation circuit32, that is, the first and second connection tubes38and40.

A ninth treatment step is performed in order to collect the cells remaining in the first and second connection tubes38and40into the storage bag36. In the ninth treatment step, as illustrated inFIG. 14I, the controller120opens only the valves70and74, and activates only the pump60. As a result, the filling liquid in the filling liquid bag54is supplied into the circulation circuit32, and the supplied filling liquid passes through the hollow fiber membrane filter34and flows toward the storage bag36. The filling liquid flowing in this way pushes the cell suspension, which remains in a portion of the circulation circuit32from the pump60to the inlet port36aof the storage bag36, to flow toward the storage bag36. As a result, the cells remaining in the circulation circuit32after the eighth treatment step, that is, after the concentration treatment, are collected in the storage bag36.

When the filling liquid that is supplied to the circulation circuit32in order to collect the cells remaining in the circulation circuit32enters the storage bag36, the concentration of the cell suspension concentrated to a predetermined concentration in the storage bag36is decreased. Therefore, immediately before the filling liquid enters the storage bag36, the supply of the filling liquid to the circulation circuit32is stopped (the pump60is stopped and the valve74is closed).

For example, a filling liquid arrival time required for the filling liquid in the filling liquid bag54to reach the storage bag36is calculated in advance based on the discharge capacity of the pump60, the flow path length from the filling liquid bag54to the storage bag36, the inner diameter of the tube, and the like. When the filling liquid arrival time has elapsed from the supply timing of the filling liquid in the filling liquid bag54to the circulation circuit32, the supply of the filling liquid is stopped.

For example, in a case where the cell suspension and the filling liquid are distinguishable, an optical sensor for detecting the color and/or turbidity of the cell suspension in the circulation circuit32(that is, the second connection tube40) is provided near the inlet port36aof the storage bag36.

In a case where the cell suspension is colored in red by phenol red and the filling liquid is transparent, when the filling liquid reaches a portion near the inlet port36aof the storage bag36which is a detection region of the optical sensor, the optical sensor detects a change in color (change from red to a different color) of the cell suspension.

In addition, in a case where the cell suspension that is concentrated to have a predetermined concentration has high turbidity, when the filling liquid reaches a portion near the inlet port36aof the storage bag36which is a detection region of the optical sensor, the optical sensor detects a change in turbidity.

When the optical sensor detects a change in color and/or turbidity of the cell suspension, the controller120stops the pump60to stop the supply of the filling liquid from the filling liquid bag54to the circulation circuit32.

When collecting the cells, which remain in the portion of the circulation circuit32from the pump60to the inlet port36aof the storage bag36, into the storage bag36is completed, the controller120executes a tenth treatment step. In the tenth treatment step, the cells remaining in the portion of the circulation circuit32from the outlet port36bof the storage bag36to the pump60are collected. Therefore, as illustrated inFIG. 14J, the controller120opens only the valves66,68, and78, and activates only the pump60. However, the controller120reversely drives the pump60(the rotor of the roller pump is reversed) in order to push the cell suspension to flow in a direction opposite to the flow direction (circulation direction CD) at the time of the cell concentration step (the seventh treatment step illustrated inFIG. 14G). Thus, the filling liquid in the filling liquid bag50is supplied to the hollow fiber membrane filter34, the supplied filling liquid flows out from the inlet port34aof the hollow fiber membrane filter34, and the filling liquid that has flowed out flows toward the outlet port36bof the storage bag36. The filling liquid flowing in this way pushes the cell suspension, which remains in the portion of the circulation circuit32from the outlet port36bof the storage bag36to the pump60, to flow toward the storage bag36. As a result, the cells remaining in the circulation circuit32after the eighth treatment step, that is, after the concentration treatment, are collected in the storage bag36.

By a method (for example, a method using an optical sensor) similar to the ninth treatment step, the supply of the filling liquid in the filling liquid bag50to the circulation circuit32is stopped before the filling liquid enters the storage bag36through the outlet port36b.

When collecting the cells remaining in the circulation circuit32is ended (when the ninth and tenth treatment steps are ended), the controller120executes the washing treatment of cells as an eleventh treatment step. Therefore, as illustrated inFIG. 14K, the controller120opens only the valves66,68, and70, and activates only the pumps60,62, and64. As a result, the replacement liquid of the replacement liquid bag56is supplied to the circulation circuit32in which the concentrated cell suspension is circulated, and a mixed solution of the cell suspension and the replacement liquid is filtered by the hollow fiber membrane filter34. Eventually, the medium components of the cell suspension are replaced with the replacement liquid, and the cells are washed. When the eleventh treatment step is ended, all the steps of the concentration treatment and the washing treatment of cells by the controller120are completed.

In the eleventh treatment step, the branch tube38aof the first connection tube38functions as an accumulator that suppresses pulsation (pressure fluctuation) of the cell suspension circulated in the circulation circuit32together with the replacement liquid.

Specifically, as illustrated inFIG. 14K, when the three pumps60,62, and64are operated, pulsation occurs in the cell suspension circulated in the circulation circuit32. As a countermeasure, the branch tube38aconnected to the first connection tube38is pinched and closed by the valve72which is a pinch device in order to cause the branch tube38ato function as the accumulator. As a result, a portion134from the branch point to the closing position in the branch tube38ais used as the accumulator.

FIG. 17is a graph illustrating pressure fluctuations of the cell suspension during cell washing in a case where an accumulator is present (example) and in a case where an accumulator is not present (comparative example).

The pressure illustrated inFIG. 17is the pressure at the inlet port34aof the hollow fiber membrane filter34, that is, the pressure detected by the pressure sensor80. As illustrated inFIG. 17, the pressure fluctuates in both the case where the accumulator is present (example) and the case where the accumulator is not present (comparative example), but the fluctuation range is larger in the comparative example. When the 3σ value (3 sigma value) is calculated, the 3σ value is about 1.91 kPa in the example, and is about 2.54 kPa in the comparative example. That is, the degree of pressure fluctuation of the cell suspension is smaller in the example.

By such an accumulator134, pulsation (pressure fluctuation) of the cell suspension during the cell washing is suppressed, and thereby the damage of the cells in the cell suspension due to the pulsation is suppressed.

In order to suppress the inflow of the cell suspension into the accumulator134(that is, the branch tube38a), the branch tube38aextends from the branch point in an orthogonal direction with respect to the flow direction of the cell suspension passing through the branch point, as illustrated in a region B ofFIG. 10.

In addition, the pinch device that pinches and closes the branch tube38ain order to cause the branch tube38ato function as the accumulator134may be forceps.

In a case where the pinch device that pinches the branch tube38ais the forceps, it is possible to change the portion of the branch tube38ato be pinched and closed by the forceps. Further, preferably, a scale may be added to the branch tube38a, for example, in order to record the portion of the branch tube38apinched by the forceps. As a result, the branch tube38aincludes a plurality of indicators indicating a plurality of pinch positions to be pinched by the forceps.

According to the present embodiment, it is possible to collect cells remaining in the circulation circuit after the concentration treatment is completed, in the concentration treatment of cells using the circulation circuit including at least the reservoir, the pump, and the hollow fiber membrane filter.

According to the present embodiment, it is possible to appropriately dispose a necessary container with respect to the circulation circuit while making the installation space compact, in the cell suspension treatment using the circulation circuit including at least the reservoir, the pump, and the hollow fiber membrane filter.

Specifically, since the plurality of containers used in the cell suspension treatment are a plurality of bags, and the plurality of bags are suspended and supported, the installation space (footprint) of the cell suspension treatment apparatus10can be made compact (compared to a case where the bag is installed in a laid state or a case where the plurality of containers containing the cell suspension and the like are not the bags).

Furthermore, according to the present embodiment, in the concentration treatment and the washing treatment of cells using the circulation circuit including at least the reservoir, the pump, and the hollow fiber membrane filter, the pulsation of the cell suspension flowing in the circulation circuit can be suppressed. As a result, the damage of the cells in the cell suspension can be suppressed.

Specifically, as illustrated inFIG. 14F, when the cell suspension is supplied from the culture tank52as the cell suspension supply source to the circulation circuit32, the branch tube40aclosed by the forceps130as the pinch device is used as the accumulator (the accumulator132is formed). The accumulator132suppresses the pulsation of the cell suspension supplied to the circulation circuit32.

As illustrated inFIG. 14K, when the replacement liquid is supplied from the replacement liquid bag56as the replacement liquid supply source to the circulation circuit32, the branch tube38aclosed by the valve72as the pinch device is used as the accumulator (the accumulator134is formed). The accumulator134suppresses the pulsation of the cell suspension circulated in the circulation circuit32together with the replacement liquid.

Although the present invention has been described with reference to the embodiments, embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto.

For example, in the case of the embodiment, as illustrated inFIG. 14J, in order to collect the cells remaining in the portion of the circulation circuit32from the outlet port36bof the storage bag36to the pump60, the filling liquid in the filling liquid bag50as the filling liquid supply source is supplied to the hollow fiber membrane filter34. However, the embodiment of the present invention is not limited thereto. The filling liquid supply source may be connected to a portion of the circulation circuit32, which is between the pump60and the valve70.

In addition, in the case of the embodiment, for example, as illustrated inFIG. 10, the plurality of bags36,50,54,56, and58are suspended from the two arm portions16A and16B. However, the embodiment of the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the number of arm portions from which the plurality of bags are suspended may be one.

Furthermore, as illustrated inFIG. 10, the filling liquid bag50and the replacement liquid bag56are suspended from the first arm portion16A, and the waste liquid bag58, the filling liquid bag54, and the storage bag36are suspended from the second arm portion16B. However, the arrangement of the plurality of bags is not limited thereto. When the wiring pattern of the connection tubes is changed, the arrangement of the plurality of bags may be changed correspondingly. However, it is preferable to dispose the bag having a large size and a heavy weight, that is, the storage bag36and the replacement liquid bag56on the outermost side in consideration of ease of hanging.

Furthermore, in the case of the embodiment, as illustrated in the region A ofFIG. 10, the branch tube40aextends from the branch point in an obliquely rearward direction with respect to the flow direction of the cell suspension passing through the branch point with the connection tube40. As illustrated in the region B ofFIG. 10, the branch tube38aextends from the branch point in an orthogonal direction with respect to the flow direction of the cell suspension passing through the branch point with the connection tube38. Thus, the inflow of the cell suspension into the branch tubes38aand40afunctioning as the accumulator is suppressed. However, the embodiment of the present invention is not limited thereto. That is, when the branch tubes38aand38bextend from the branch point in an obliquely rearward direction, an orthogonal direction, or an upward direction with respect to the flow direction of the cell suspension flowing through the branch point, the inflow of the cell suspension can be suppressed.

The illustrated embodiment will be roughly described again as follows.

The “main body of the cell suspension treatment apparatus” includes a filtration filter34at substantially the center on the front surface. For example, as illustrated in the reference drawing (FIG. 10), various bags are suspended from the apparatus main body, and the various bags and the filtration filter are piped using a tube material to constitute the cell suspension treatment apparatus. The cell suspension treatment apparatus is an apparatus for performing a concentration treatment and a washing treatment on a cell suspension in which cells such as platelets and megakaryocytes are suspended in a liquid medium, and is used, for example, as follows. First, the primer agent stored in the bags50and54is circulated to wash the inside of the filter and the pipe (the primer agent after use is collected in the bag58as a waste liquid). Next, the cultured cell suspension (culture solution) is supplied to the bag36from the outside via the tube38a. Then, the cell suspension is filtered (concentrated) by the filter34while being circulated in the circulation circuit32(the filtrate is sent to the filtrate tank44). Finally, the replacement liquid in the bag56is supplied while the concentrated cell suspension is circulated in the circulation circuit32, and the medium component of the cell suspension is replaced with the replacement liquid. In this way, all the steps of the concentration treatment and the washing treatment of cells are completed.

As described above, the plurality of embodiments have been described as examples of the technique in the present invention. Therefore, the accompanying drawings and the detailed description have been provided.

Therefore, the components described in the accompanying drawings and the detailed description may include not only essential components for solving the problem but also non-essential components for solving the problem in order to illustrate the technique. Therefore, it should not be immediately recognized that the non-essential components are essential based on the fact that the non-essential components are described in the accompanying drawings and the detailed description.

In addition, since the embodiments are intended to illustrate the technique in the present invention, various changes, replacements, additions, omissions, and the like can be made within the scope of the claims or equivalents thereof.

The present invention is applicable to a apparatus for treating a cell suspension using a circulation circuit.