Figure 1.
Schematic illustration of the novel pulsatile bioreactor. (1) Luer-lock-connector for CO2-gassing, (2) luer-lock-connectors for nutrient supply and removal, (3) media compartment, (4) gasket, (5) clip-system, (6) sample compartment, (7) pressure compartment, (8) base plate, (9) actuation unit. By generating a pulsatile pressure in the pressure compartment, pulse membranes in the clip-systems bend and seeded scaffolds, also fixed in the clip-system, are subjected to friction stress. Nutrient supply of seeded scaffolds was provided by medium in the media compartment. Physiological conditions are provided by integrating the whole bioreactor in a standard incubator. Sterile filters on the top of the three media compartments secure CO2-exchange. Scale bar = 20 mm.