June 12 (UPI) — A group of researchers in the field of nephrology has been recognized and awarded a collective prize of $9.2 million at the second phase of the KidneyX Summit in Washington, D.C.
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the American Society of Nephrology have joined forces to support the development of artificial kidneys. This phase of the KidneyX Summit, referred to as “Phase two,” focused on applauding researchers who have made advancements in the field of artificial kidneys using regenerative medicine, cellular engineering, tissue engineering, systems biology, and synthetic biology.
Currently, approximately 850 million individuals are affected by kidney disease, and tragically, thirteen people die each day while waiting for a kidney transplant.
John R. Sedor, chair of the KidneyX steering committee, acknowledged that progress in kidney treatments has been slow over the past 50 years. However, the competition has played a vital role in inspiring new innovations to tackle the needs of individuals with kidney disease.
In a statement, Sedor announced, “The winners of Phase 2 of the Artificial Kidney Prize have introduced groundbreaking solutions in xenotransplantation and regenerative medicine that are poised to alleviate the burdens faced by those with kidney disease.”
During phase two of the competition, six winners will each receive $1 million in recognition of their exceptional contributions. Phase one of the competition, which focused on advancing the functionality, effectiveness, and reliability of artificial kidneys, took place in 2021.
The winners of phase one were Matt Tector, who focused on solving the issue of donor kidney shortage, and David K.C. Kooper, who conducted research on alemtuzumab induction therapy in monkeys with life-supporting pig kidney transplants. Both individuals received $1.6 million in prize money.
The winners of phase two are as follows:
Anthony Atala, for his work on a 3D vascularized biomimetic renal construct platform for accelerated vascular integration.
William Chang, for his research on engineering bioartificial kidneys by combining kidney organoids and peritoneal dialysis.
Nils Olof Lindstrom, for his contribution to the field through the creation of draining artificial kidneys by connecting synchronized nephrons to synthetic organizers.
Harald C. Ott, for his work involving the use of manufacturing and system dynamics tools to enable autonomous blood purification implants.
Shuvo Roy, for the development of an immunoprotective bioreactor aimed at kidney cell encapsulation.
Ben Shepherd, for his efforts in bioengineered therapies for patients with kidney failure.
In response to the award, Rachel L. Levin, assistant secretary for health admiral, expressed the HHS’s excitement and dedication to advancing kidney care through the KidneyX partnership. She congratulated the winners and emphasized the role the prize competition plays in propelling advancements and solutions in the artificial kidney field.
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