Unique Program to Develop a Biohybrid Kidney Launched

The program is a collaboration between the Dutch Kidney Foundation (Nierstichting), UMC Utrecht, Utrecht University, University of Twente, Imec, and RegMed XB Foundation. Within the program, researchers from the participating knowledge institutions will work together with several MedTech companies to develop a biohybrid kidney. Ultimately, this implantable device containing living kidney cells is intended to replace dialysis. The program is unique in Europe and has been made possible through support from the Dutch Kidney Foundation and Health Holland.

Combining Synthetic Materials and Human Cells

Millions of people worldwide living with kidney failure depend on dialysis or kidney transplantation. While dialysis is life-sustaining, it replaces only a limited part of normal kidney function and significantly impacts quality of life. Researchers are therefore working on a biohybrid kidney that can function continuously within the body. This biohybrid kidney combines innovative blood filtration technologies with living kidney cells to mimic key functions of the natural kidney.

The Difference Between Current Dialysis Machines and a Biohybrid Kidney

Karin Gerritsen, nephrologist at UMC Utrecht, explains:

“While a dialysis machine uses an artificial kidney that filters waste products from the blood through a dialysis membrane and dialysis fluid, a biohybrid kidney also contains living kidney cells. These cells can help remove waste products more effectively and bring treatment closer to the function of a real kidney. The biohybrid kidney therefore represents an important bridge between today’s dialysis treatments and the long-term ambition of fully restoring or replacing a failing kidney. Many scientific and technological breakthroughs are still needed to achieve that goal, but every step brings that future closer.”

Confidence in an Ambitious Challenge

“With the launch of Biohybrid Kidney XB, we are taking an important step toward a future in which the daily lives of kidney patients are less defined by dialysis,” says Tom Oostrom, Director of the Dutch Kidney Foundation.

“The Dutch Kidney Foundation has been investing in groundbreaking innovations for kidney patients for many years. For example, it previously played a key role in the development of the Neokidney, a wearable artificial kidney designed to offer dialysis patients greater freedom. With Biohybrid Kidney XB, together with our partners, we are building on the ambition of ultimately achieving a sustainable and patient-friendly treatment for kidney failure. And yes, this will undoubtedly be another long-term endeavor, but by joining forces, we face this challenge with confidence.”

About the Collaboration

The research is coordinated by  dr. Jeroen Vollenbroek of the UMC Utrecht and carried out in collaboration with researchers from Utrecht University, University of Twente, Imec, and several MedTech companies, including Biochem Oss BV, M3Nephron BV, MosaMatrix BV, Cell4Pharma BV, Orgonex BV, Me-Sep Sp. z o.o., and Vital 3D Technologies UAB.

The project is co-funded through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) grant awarded by Health Holland, the Top Sector Life Sciences & Health, in collaboration with the Dutch Kidney Foundation, to stimulate public-private partnerships and accelerate innovation in healthcare.