Devices for selective recruitment, isolation, activation, and/or elimination of various cell populations

Abstract

Implantable devices comprise at least one or more targeting molecules that form a primary coating layer for selectively recruiting, isolating, activating, and/or eliminating any cells of interest, such as T cells, monocytes, and stem cells. The implantable devices can be utilized for selectively removing a particular subset of cells from bodily fluids of a patient. Various non-selective pharmaceutical agents and biological agents can be incorporated into the implantable devices so that cells of interest can be isolated for elimination or for activation/differentiation. Cell-type selectivity is conferred by the presence of cell-type-specific targeting molecules incorporated into the implantable device, preferably at the surface level to permit direct or indirect interaction between the cells of interest and targeting molecules of the implantable device. Related therapeutic methods for utilizing the implantable devices are also provided. These implantable devices can be manufactured as a stent, a catheter, a holding chamber, or any other device, and can be manufactured into any shape, including a conduit, a vessel, and a tubing.