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Novel renal replacement technology among KidneyX competition winners
The development of a dialysate and cell-free renal replacement technology was among the winning solutions awarded at the KidneyX Redesign Dialysis phase 1 competition.
Researchers from the University of California, Los Angeles, U.S. Kidney Research Corporation (formerly the Curion Research Corporation) and the University of Arkansas are working to develop a device that allows the kidney to filter blood and transport ions and water without the need for a dialysate. A sorbent system used to regenerate dialysate solutions are also not needed for this device, according to a press release.
“Given the number of patients on the transplant waiting list and the known drawbacks of current dialysis therapy, it has become increasingly apparent that fundamental technological advances in renal replacement therapy are needed to improve the health outcomes and quality of life of patients with ESRD,” according to the release. “Here, we introduce a novel technological advance in the field of renal replacement therapy that allows for the first time, the two key functional properties of the kidney, ie, filtration of blood and specific transport of ions and water to be simulated by a device that does not utilize a dialysate, water or biological-based components.”
The device uses three modules for ultrafiltration, nanofiltration and reverse osmosis. These modules are designed to stimulate glomeruli function and help prevent glucose from excreting into the urine stream. One of the key features of the device is the electrodeionization technology which allows for modulation and specificity of ion transport.
“The technologic advances and approaches employed in this proposal can be potentially utilized in the future in various configurations that include standalone, wearable and implantable renal replacement devices to treat patients with compromised kidney function,” according to a press release.
The technology has been in development for 4 years and is awaiting a non-provisional patent application to be reviewed by the U.S. government. By winning phase 1 of the KidneyX competition, $75,000 was awarded to help fund this project. New features are being added to improve the functionality of the device.
“Feedforward and feedback sensor systems are being incorporated that will allow the device to respond under customizable software control to changes in blood chemistry,” according to the release.
References: www.kidneyx.org/PrizeCompetitions/PastCompetitions/redesigndialysisphasei
www.uskidneyresearchcorp.com/our-tech-vs-dialysis
Disclosure: Kurtz reports he is on the board of U.S. Kidney Research Corporation and has received shares in the company.