Thin film cell encapsulation devices

A method for transplanting cells into a subject in need thereof, said method comprising:

• (a) providing a thin film device comprising:
• (i) a first nanoporous or microporous polymer layer;
• a second nanoporous or microporous polymer layer, wherein said first and second nanoporous or microporous polymer layers define a lumen between said first and second nanoporous or microporous polymer layers;
• and
• (iii) a therapeutically effective amount of a population of cells disposed in said lumen between said first and second nanoporous or microporous polymer layers, wherein said first nanoporous or microporous polymer layer has a thickness of 10 μm to 100 μm and said second nanoporous or microporous polymer layer has a thickness of 10 μm to 100 μm, and
• wherein said device has a surface area of 1 cm2 to 5 cm2;
• and
• (b) transplanting said device into said subject, wherein one or more of:
• (i) vascularization into said lumen of said device via the pores in said first nanoporous or microporous polymer layer or said second nanoporous or microporous polymer layer is observed;
• (ii) a limited foreign body response to said device is observed;
• or
• (iii) a limited ingress of cells, immunoglobulins, and cytokines into said lumen via said first and second nanoporous or microporous polymer layers, is observed.