Combined perfusion and mechanical loading system for explanted bone

US6171812A · kind A · utility

Assignee

• The National Institute of Biogerontology, Inc. · US

Inventors

• Evertt L. Smith · Madison, US
• David B. Jones · San Jose, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jul 6, 1998
• Grant date: Jan 9, 2001
• Expiry date: Jul 6, 2018

Classification

• Technology area (CPC G): Physics
• CPC primary: G01N2203/0623
• WIPO field: Measurement
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

The system provides frame means, mechanical loading means, electronic control means and perfusion chamber means in which an accurately cut human or animal trabecular bone sample can be maintained in a viable state for an extended period. A chamber is provided which permits perfusion of the trabecular bone sample with suitable media. Mechanical means are provided for loading of the sample under controlled specified conditions. Second messenger and growth factors may be collected from the perfusion chamber effluent to enable study of samples under a wide variety of perfusion and loading conditions. The system allows viability of the sample to be maintained for in excess of 14 days and permits the study of rate of bone formation and the rate of resorption of trabecular bone.