Over two million people globally suffer from end-stage renal disease (ESRD), with kidney transplants being the best treatment option. However, the severe shortage of donor organs limits the availability of transplants, forcing many patients to rely on long-term dialysis, which is associated with increased comorbidities, including a higher risk of kidney cancer. Technological advancements, such as the implantable bioartificial kidney (BAK) and kidney regeneration technology, aim to address these challenges by providing fully functional kidney replacements.

The implantable BAK combines a high-efficiency filter with a bioreactor of cultured renal tubule epithelial cells. Kidney regeneration technology uses stem cells and scaffolding to create transplantable kidney grafts from a patient’s own cells. These advancements could significantly reduce the time patients spend on dialysis and mitigate risks such as cancer, infections, and the need for immunosuppressants, ultimately improving the quality of life and outcomes for patients with ESRD.

Reference: Dominy CL, Shamsian EB, Okhawere KE, et al. Recent innovations in renal replacement technology and potential applications to transplantation and dialysis patients: a review of current methods. Kidney Res Clin Pract. 2023;42(1):53-62. doi: 10.23876/j.krcp.22.074.