Multilayered cell culture apparatus

Abstract

A multilayered cell culture apparatus for the culturing of cells is disclosed. The cell culture apparatus is defined as an integral structure having a plurality of cell culture chambers in combination with tracheal space(s). The body of the apparatus has imparted therein gas permeable membranes in combination with tracheal spaces that will allow the free flow of gases between the cell culture chambers and the external environment. The flask body also includes an aperture that will allow access to the cell growth chambers by means of a needle or cannula. The size of the apparatus, and location of an optional neck and cap section, allows for its manipulation by standard automated assay equipment, further making the apparatus ideal for high throughput applications.

1 - 21 . (canceled) 
     
     
         22 . A static cell growth apparatus comprising:
 only one compartment; and   said compartment is liquid impermeable, capable of holding medium, and includes more than one gas permeable shelf for cells to reside upon; and each shelf has a culture space between it and an opposing surface; and   a manifold connects each culture space, and the culture spaces reside one above the other when the shelves are in a horizontal position; and the outside surface of each shelf is in contact with projections that are spaced apart to create a space for ambient gas to contact each shelf.   
     
     
         23 . The apparatus of  claim 22 , whereby said compartment is capable of being completely filled with media for optimal cell-nutrient exchange. 
     
     
         24 . The apparatus of  claim 22 , wherein said opposing surface is gas permeable, liquid impermeable. 
     
     
         25 . The apparatus of  claim 22 , whereby a uniformity of conditions for cellular growth includes a determined media volume per unit surface area. 
     
     
         26 . The apparatus of  claim 22 , wherein said compartment has a substantially rectangular footprint and a substantially uniform height. 
     
     
         27 . A static cell growth apparatus comprising:
 a liquid impermeable housing, the inside of which is able to contain cells and medium and the outside of which is in contact with ambient gas; and the housing defining a plurality of gas permeable shelves, each having an inside surface and an outside surface; and the inside surface of each shelf having an opposing surface located a distance away and defining a culture space; and the culture spaces are located one above the other when the shelves are in a horizontal position; and   a manifold that connects the culture spaces; and   projections that make contact with the outside surface of each shelf while leaving a portion of the outside surface in contact with ambient gas.   
     
     
         28 . The apparatus of  claim 27 , whereby said housing is capable of being completely filled with media for optimal cell-nutrient exchange. 
     
     
         29 . The apparatus of  claim 27 , wherein said opposing surface is gas permeable, liquid impermeable. 
     
     
         30 . The apparatus of  claim 27 , whereby a uniformity of conditions for cellular growth includes a determined media volume per unit surface area.