Apparatus for preparing a biocompatible matrix

Abstract

An apparatus and method of using the apparatus to prepare a biocompatible biodegradable matrix capable of supporting cells to form an implantable or engraftable surgical device. A matrix-forming fluid is contained within a chamber defined by top and bottom surfaces of a thermally conductive material and spacers defining the thickness of the matrix. The chamber is then cooled to freeze the solution at a controlled rate, resulting in a matrix with a desired and uniform thickness having symmetric and uniform reticulations. The apparatus and method reproducibly forms such a matrix, which may be populated with cells for transplantation and engraftment into a wound.

1 . A biocompatible matrix prepared by providing a matrix-forming fluid to an apparatus wherein the fluid is contained between a first thermally conductive surface and a second thermally conductive surface and has substantially uniform thickness,
 cooling the fluid at a controlled rate to simultaneously remove heat from the first and second surfaces to form a frozen matrix by circulating a coolant fluid within a coolant chamber containing the apparatus,   dehydrating the solid sheet to form the matrix, and   physically crosslinking the matrix to result in a biocompatible matrix,   the biocompatible matrix for preparing a cultured skin device comprising cultured dermal cells on the engineered biocompatible reticulated acellular matrix comprised of collagen, the dermal cells providing a cellular lamination layer for cultured epidermal cells deposited thereon.   
     
     
         2 . The matrix of  claim 1  wherein the fluid contains a substance selected from the group consisting of a carbohydrate, a protein, a polypeptide, and combinations thereof. 
     
     
         3 . The matrix of  claim 1  wherein cooling is at a rate to effect a decrease in temperature from about 4° C. to about −70° C. at a time up to about two hours. 
     
     
         4 . The matrix of  claim 1  wherein at least one of the thermally conductive surfaces is substantially non-adherent to the matrix. 
     
     
         5 . The matrix of  claim 1  wherein the thermally conductive material is a metal. 
     
     
         6 . The matrix of  claim 1  wherein the biocompatible matrix includes reticulations that are substantially uniform across the thickness of the matrix.