Cell encapsulation loading device

Abstract

The present invention provides a loading fixture for loading cells, cell clusters, and media to an immune-isolation device. The loading fixture permits the loading of cells into the immune-isolation device without manual manipulation of the immune-isolation device, until the loading device is opened at the point of use, thereby minimizing the risk of contamination of the immune-isolation device.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A cell encapsulation system, comprising:
 a body comprising a base and a lid, forming a cavity therebetween, with an opening on at least one of the lid or the base; and   an immune-isolation device comprising an inlet and a cell pouch, the inlet being coupled to the opening.   
     
     
         2 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the immune-isolation device is in fluid communication with the cavity. 
     
     
         3 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the body is configured to be vented. 
     
     
         4 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the lid is removable. 
     
     
         5 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the opening is on the base. 
     
     
         6 . The system of  claim 1 , further comprising a blade slidably disposed in the cavity configured to cut the inlet. 
     
     
         7 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein at least one of the base and the lid has a feature configured to assist with separating the base from the lid. 
     
     
         8 . The system of  claim 7 , wherein the feature is ribs.