| abstract |
Systems and methods for producing and using a body having a first structure defining a first chamber, a second structure defining a second chamber, a membrane located at an interface region between the first chamber and the second chamber to separate the first chamber from the second chamber. The first chamber comprises a first permeable matrix disposed therein and the first permeable matrix comprises at least one or a plurality of lumens each extending therethrough, which is optionally lined with at least one layer of cells. The second chamber can comprise cells cultured therein. The systems and methods described herein can be used for various applications, including, e.g., growth and/or differentiation of primary cells, and/or simulation of a microenvironment in living tissues and/or organs (to model physiology or disease states, and/or to identify therapeutic agents). The systems and methods can also permit co-cultures of two or more different cell types. |