The current standard for treating end-stage renal disease (ESRD) is kidney transplantation or dialysis when a donor organ isn’t available. The shortage of donor organs and the negative effects of long-term dialysis, such as infections, limited mobility, and increased cancer risk, drive the need for alternative renal replacement technologies. This review assesses two recent innovations: the implantable bioartificial kidney (BAK) and kidney regeneration technology. Both are fully implantable and personalized with patient cells, aiming to replace all kidney functions.

Innovations in kidney replacement technology have focused on creating devices that provide full kidney functionality. The implantable BAK and kidney regeneration technology aim to offer solutions by combining high-efficiency filters with bioreactors or using scaffolding for cellular regeneration. Both technologies address donor shortages and complications from dialysis and immunosuppressants, but they are not yet ready for clinical use. Further research is needed to explore their potential impact on reducing dialysis duration and cancer risk in patients with ESRD.

Reference: Dominy CL, Shamsian EB, Okhawere KE, Korn TG, Meilika K, Badani K. 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.