Cerebrospinal Fluid Pulsation Bioreactoris a device that simulates the biomechanical environment created by cerebrospinal-fluid pulsation, dynamically cultures cell–biomaterial composites in vitro to construct artificial living bone tissue, and records experimental data in real time. The resulting tissue-engineered bone offers strong biomechanical properties, biocompatibility and bioactivity, providing a new method for clinical bone-tissue research and application. It is mainly used for in-vitro construction of living bone tissue and for studies of biomaterial–cell compatibility, fatigue properties and toxicity. It is suitable for product development and scientific research at universities, hospitals, research institutes, biological research centers and biomaterials laboratories.
I. Preparation Before Storage
Thorough cleaning and disinfection:
Immediately after the experiment, flush every fluid path that contacted biological samples, including tubing, reaction chambers and connectors, with sterile saline or PBS.
Soak and brush removable components with a mild laboratory cleaner such as Alconox or RBS, or with 70% ethanol, to remove residual cells, proteins and medium.
Autoclave compatible components at 121°C for 15-20 minutes. Sterilize heat-sensitive components with ethylene oxide (EO) or ultraviolet irradiation.
Rinse thoroughly with deionized or sterile water after cleaning to prevent detergent residue.
Complete drying:
Air-dry all cleaned components or blow them dry with clean, oil-free and moisture-free compressed air or nitrogen.
Ensure that no liquid remains inside tubing, chamber dead zones or sensor interfaces to prevent microbial growth and metal corrosion.
Drain system fluids:
Disconnect all fluid reservoirs and drain the pump heads, tubing and reaction chambers.
If the system has a circulating temperature-control fluid, such as a water bath, drain and dry it as well.
II. Separate Treatment of Critical Components
Sensor protection:
Remove pressure, flow, pH and other sensor probes and store them as directed in the manual; for example, immerse a pH electrode in its designated storage solution.
If a sensor cannot be removed, ensure that its interface is dry and seal it with a dust cap.
Pump-system maintenance:
Peristaltic pump: remove the pump tubing to prevent elastic fatigue from prolonged compression, and store it separately in a cool, dry place.
Plunger/syringe pump: return the plunger to its home position and apply a small amount of inert grease, such as silicone grease, to prevent metal oxidation.
Seal inspection:
Inspect rubber components such as O-rings and gaskets for aging or cracks and replace them when necessary.
Apply a small amount of silicone grease to prevent drying and cracking.
Electronic components:
Disconnect the power supply and unplug all data and signal cables.
Cover the control unit or main unit with an antistatic cloth.
III. Storage of the Complete System or Components
Storage-environment requirements:
Temperature: 10–30°C. Avoid extremely high or low temperatures, including locations near heaters, air-conditioning vents or cold rooms.
Humidity: relative humidity <60% to prevent metal corrosion and moisture damage to circuit boards.
Environment: a dry, clean, dust-free indoor space without corrosive gases such as acid mist or chlorine.
Light protection: avoid direct sunlight to prevent aging of plastic components.
Storage method:
Place the equipment or components in the original packaging or under a dedicated dust cover.
For long-term storage, place desiccant sachets such as silica gel in the case and replace them regularly.
Keep the equipment level to prevent internal deformation caused by tilting.
IV. Long-Term Storage (More Than 1 Month)
Periodic inspection:
Every 1-2 months, check whether the desiccant is exhausted and inspect the equipment for abnormalities such as mold or rust.
Power the system briefly without biological samples to verify normal control-system operation.
Avoid frequent start-stop cycles:
If the system will be used again soon, keep it sealed and dry rather than disassembling it completely.
V. Preparation Before Returning to Service
Reassembly: install pump tubing, sensors, reaction chambers and other components according to procedure.
Leak test: perform a pressure test to confirm leak-tightness.
Calibration: recalibrate pressure, flow, temperature and other sensors.
Aseptic treatment: sterilize or aseptically flush the system again before use.