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. 2017 Jun;3(2):68-76.
doi: 10.1007/s40778-017-0079-3. Epub 2017 Apr 12.

Bioartificial Kidneys

Peter R Corridon  1   2   3 , In Kap Ko  1 , James J Yoo  1 , Anthony Atala  1
Affiliations

Bioartificial Kidneys

Peter R Corridon et al. Curr Stem Cell Rep. 2017 Jun.

Abstract

Purpose of review: Historically, there have been many advances in the ways in which we treat kidney diseases. In particular, hemodialysis has set the standard for treatment since the early 1960s and continues today as the most common form of treatment for acute, chronic, and end-stage conditions. However, the rising global prevalence of kidney diseases and our limited understanding of their etiologies have placed significant burdens on current clinical management regimens. This has resulted in a desperate need to improve the ways in which we treat the underlying and ensuing causes of kidney diseases for those who are unable to receive transplants.

Recent findings: One way of possibly addressing these issues is through the use of improved bioartificial kidneys. Bioartificial kidneys provide an extension to conventional artificial kidneys and dialysis systems, by incorporating aspects of living cellular and tissue function, in an attempt to better mimic normal kidneys. Recent advancements in genomic, cellular, and tissue engineering technologies are facilitating the improved design of these systems.

Summary: In this review, we outline various research efforts that have focused on the development of regenerated organs, implantable constructs, and whole bioengineered kidneys, as well as the transitions from conventional dialysis to these novel alternatives. As a result, we envision that these pioneering efforts can one day produce bioartificial renal technologies that can either perform or reintroduce essential function, and thus provide practical options to treat and potentially prevent kidney diseases.

Keywords: Bioengineering; Bioratificial kidney; Cell therapy and gene therapy; Dialysis; Regenerative medicine.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of Interest Peter R. Corridon has a patent pending on hydrodynamic methods for delivering fluids to kidney tissues and related materials and methods. In Kap Ko, James J. Yoo, and Anthony Atala declare that they have no conflict of interest.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
An illustration of bioactive compound, gene therapy, and cell therapy-based renal regeneration technologies. PDGF platelet-derived growth factor, TGF-β transforming growth factor-beta, VEGF vascular endothelial growth factor
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
An outline of the properties of scaffolding systems and the applications for treatment of renal diseases
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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