Update on Renal Replacement Therapy: Implantable Artificial Devices and Bioengineered Organs

Area of Science:

• Regenerative Medicine
• Bioengineering
• Artificial Organs

Background:

• End-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients face challenges with organ transplant waiting lists and dialysis limitations.
• Current research aims to create self-standing devices that replicate kidney function for renal replacement therapy.
• Significant clinical impact is sought through innovations in artificial organs and regenerative medicine.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review two key innovations in renal replacement therapy: the artificial renal assist device (RAD) and the bioengineered kidney.
• To highlight their potential for patient autonomy and long-term function.
• To discuss challenges hindering clinical translation.

Main Methods:

• Review of artificial renal assist device (RAD) strategies utilizing micromachining for biohybrid systems.
• Review of kidney bioengineering approaches exploiting native organ structure for transplantable kidneys.
• Analysis of technological approaches for implantable, long-lasting, and autonomous renal replacement.

Main Results:

• Two promising technologies, the RAD and bioengineered kidney, are emerging.
• Both aim to be implantable, long-lasting, and free-standing for patient autonomy.
• Different technological approaches are being pursued for these advanced kidney therapies.

Conclusions:

• The artificial RAD and bioengineered kidney represent significant advancements in renal replacement therapy.
• Both technologies aim to provide autonomous, long-term solutions for kidney failure.
• Further research is necessary to address challenges before clinical application.