Available Technology

A bioreactor device, and method and system for fabricating tissues and growing cells and tissues in the bioreactor device, accommodates less than about 1 mL (or less than about 200 microliters) of local medium volume but sample sizes of about 100 microliters or greater. The bioreactor device includes a bioreactor chamber for containing a sample, where sample growth in response to mechanical, electrical, and biofactor stimulation is monitored through one or more optical ports. Embedded sensors are provided for measuring fluid pressure,pH, temperature, and oxygen tension. The bioreactor device can receive diefferent rypes of mechanical loadings, including fluid shear, hydrostatic pressure, matrix compression, and clinorotation.