Nutrients and other small molecules pass across the semi-permeable, cellulose acetate membrane of the cell compartment. Any cell-secreted product with a molecular weight of over 10,000 Dalton is retained in the growth chamber of the device. The molded silicone membrane on the bottom of the cell compartment allows oxygen to reach the cells from underneath. The cells settle upon the bottom of the cell compartment atop of this gas exchange surface, across which oxygen and carbon dioxide rapidly diffuse. This approach leads to high cell concentrations within the small cell compartment volume.
Separate ports provide selective access to the nutrient supply chamber and the cultivation chamber.
The solid white cap identifies the cultivation chamber port, while a blue vent cap identifies the nutrient supply chamber. The cell chamber is accessed via the cultivation chamber port via a serological pipet. The total system is transparent to allow visibility. Find out more about Acrobat Reader and how to view and print PDF files . All trademarks are property of Becton, Dickinson and Company unless otherwise noted.