Artificial Kidney Is a Much Closer Reality than You Could’ve Imagined
Artificial kidney is the talk of today in medical science advancement. Scientists today are in the process of developing artificial kidneys that can successfully eliminate dialysis need by replicating the functions of the real organ. UCSF has a website completed dedicated to this called ‘THE KIDNEY PROJECT’, which is a collaboration between Nephrology and Bio engineering, initiated by doctors from Vanderbilt University. The primary objective of the project is to design artificial kidneys for implantation. The inception of the project began when a renal tubule assist device (RAD) was made using CRRT hemofilter which was lined with renal cells. Upon success of the work by UCSF, the need for dialysis can be eliminated.
Further research tells us that more than 80% of kidneys that have been transplanted are under working condition even after 3 years. This is indeed a sign of progress. Most of the transplants have taken place in the US. Usually, patients have to wait for about 10 years to find a suitable organ donor. And to add to this 5–10 years is the average life expectancy for dialysis although there are exceptions. Also, dialysis has to be performed on a daily basis to remove toxins from bloodstreams. All this has led to the need and development of artificial kidney solutions.
The artificial kidney acts as an alternative to dialysis and other such devices that have to be worn externally, which greatly affects the mobility of the patient. Although a live kidney is still considered the best donor, the shortage of organ donors has compelled doctors and scientists to find alternate solutions.
The new artificial kidney uses the body’s own blood pressure, it does not need external tubes to support the device. Haven being tested by the University of Washington, the technology is heading towards the final stages of its development. The development incorporates silicon nanotechnology which enables compact filtering membrane and mass production. They are also blood compatible making them a universal device. Although patients may require hormonal supplements, the option of dialysis is completely opted out.
At present The Kidney Project is in the process of raising funds to complete its studies and to create various prototypes to actually begin on real human bodies. India has some of the best nephrologists in Chennai; and a doctor from Apollo Hospitals, Chennai, says that,challenges in the long term include that of keeping the device free from troubles post-implantation. The project despite having received a government grant of $6 million also continues to receive donations from various individuals and organizations. With much development and contributions that are made in this technology, that which was a dream is indeed becoming more than a reality. And adding to this, the urgent need for such a solution to meet the ever growing need of organ transplants in a world where there are very few donors, artificial kidneys remain the most promising solution for this dilemma.