| abstract |
The present invention provides a bioreactor for large mammalian lung tissue. The bioreactor is capable of hydraulically driven negative and positive pressure perfusion and ventilation. Perfusion and ventilation are delivered at physiological rates and can be easily controlled. In one aspect, the bioreactor includes a support scaffold to support the size of the large mammalian lung tissue. In another aspect, the bioreactor includes a pleural bag that provides a small isolated fluid chamber surrounding the engineered lung, thereby minimizing the amount of media required. The present invention also provides in vitro models for examining the function of test agents, as well as compositions and methods for reducing lung abnormalities in large mammals. |