Device for trans-membrane co-culture of cells and a method for using same

Abstract

A self-contained ready-to-use trans-membrane co-culture system of the present invention includes an insert having a tube with a longitudinal axis, a sidewall substantially parallel to the axis connecting a first open end and a second end. The second end has a microporous membrane bonded to it substantially perpendicular to the axis forming a well within the insert. The insert has a flange extending outwardly from the sidewall at the first end for suspending the insert as described hereinabove with a removable plug placed in the well of the insert to substantially prevent fluid flow through the microporous membrane. The insert with the plug is contained in a housing having a first end, a second end and a passageway therethrough. The housing has a longitudinal axis, a first diameter at the first end, a second diameter at the second end and an intermediate diameter between the first and second diameter. When the second end of the insert is coaxially placed in the first end of the housing, the second end of the insert has an interference fit with the intermediate diameter of the housing forming a chamber above the microporous membrane. The first and second ends of the housing are reclosably sealed with gas permeable lids that substantially prevent the passage of microorganisms into the sterililzed system housing as long as the lids are unopened. The present invention includes a method for trans-membrane co-culture of cells using the insert and the system of the present invention.