AMES, Iowa, Aug. 31 (UPI) -- Researchers say they've developed a human nephron filter that might make possible a continuously functioning, wearable or implantable artificial kidney.
The HNF is the first step in developing a renal replacement therapy that eventually might eliminate the need for dialysis or kidney transplantation in end-stage renal disease patients. The HNF utilizes a unique membrane system created through applied nanotechnology.
In the ideal RRT device, the newly developed technology would be used to mimic the function of natural kidneys, continuously operating, and based on individual patient needs.
Researchers said no dialysis solution would be used in the device. Operating 12 hours a day, seven days a week, the filtration rate of the HNF is double that of conventional hemodialysis administered three times a week.
According to the study, nearly 900,000 patients worldwide suffer from end-stage renal disease and require treatment through dialysis or transplantation. Animal studies using the technology are to begin within the next one or two years, with clinical trials to follow.
The study appears in the latest issue of Hemodialysis International.
