Method for enriching adherent monocyte populations

Patent Number: 7,393,628

Monocytes are generally known as the precursors to macrophages, cells involved in phagocytosing bacteria and injured tissue (thats why in Latin "Macrophage" apparently means "Big Eater"). 

However, in addition to the classical functions of monocytes, there is evidence to suggest that these cells are potent stimulators of angiogenesis, as well, monocytes when activated under distinct conditions can differentiate into secretors of antiinflammatory cytokines.

Perhaps most interesting is the report that monocytes can actually be differentiated into many other cell types, including hepatocytes, islets, and neurons.  Not only is this covered in US patent # 7,138,275, but also the company Opexa is working on a similar monocyte-like cell will pluripotent activities.

The current patent covers ways of collecting large numbers of monocytes, something that will be critically important if any of the above uses for monocytes will be practically developed.  The patent has 1 independent claim that covers "A method for isolating monocytes comprising: a) passing a blood component, which is enriched in monocytes compared to whole blood, through a monocyte-adhering filter, b) removing non-adherent cells by chasing the blood component through the filter with a physiological solution, c) removing loosely adherent lymphocytes by backflushing the filter with a physiological solution, d) removing monocytes by backflushing the filter with a physiologically compatible viscous solution, and e) collecting the isolated monocytes."

View this patent on the USPTO website.