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Abstract

An improved bioreactor system for culturing cell products is disclosed in which novel system components are employed to reduce cost and increase reliability. The system includes a simple in-line heater for heating the nutrient fluid, thereby obviating the need for an expensive incubator. Gas bubbles formed during the heating of the nutrient fluid are removed by a novel gas trap that requires no operator intervention. A humidifier humidifies an aerating gas before it is passed through an oxygenator, thereby preventing water within the nutrient fluid from evaporating, with a consequent increase in nutrient fluid concentration. The operation of the humidifier is efficiently combined with that of a nutrient fluid heat exchanger so that a pump is not required to circulate the heat exchanger water bath. The system further includes a valve and pump arrangement whereby fresh nutrient fluid can periodically be introduced and spent nutrient fluid periodically drained without operator intervention. Observation of the color of the nutrient fluid from a concealed location within the bioreactor enclosure is also made possible.

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First Claim