Renal epithelial-cell-controlled solute transport across permeable membranes as the foundation for a bioartificial...

Despite the success of current blood purification techniques in allowing the survival of individuals with acute and chronic renal failure, the quality of life of people affected by end-stage renal disease remains unsatisfactory. Part of the reason is due to the nonphysiologic manner in which current blood purification techniques achieve homeostasis. Attempts to improve mechanical substitution of renal function by coupling the transport capability of living cells with conventional hemofiltration devices constitute the first step toward the development of an implantable bioartificial kidney.