Written By: Shraddha Rupavate | Updated : May 21, 2014 4:40 PM IST
Our kidneys perform the function of filtering blood to remove all toxic wastes from the body. In people with reduced kidney function or kidney failure, the blood does not get filtered properly which results in excess build up of wastes in the system. Currently, dialysis is a common treatment used to treat such patients. But dialysis is a process that involves a lot of specifications and is expensive as well as time consuming. The machines need electricity to run and also requires vigilant maintenance. Moreover, the machines are not readily available in all parts of the countries.
Mitsuhiro Ebara along with co-workers at The International Center for Materials Nanoarchitectonics, National Institute for Materials Science in Ibaraki, Japan synthesized a nanofibre mesh capable of eliminating toxic and waste products from the blood. The researchers believe that the device can serve as a cheap alternative to dialysis for patients suffering from kidney failure all over the world.
By devising this nanofibre mesh, the WPI-MANA researchers have widened the scope of treatment in patients requiring dialysis. The mesh can be simply integrated into a blood purification product small enough to be worn on a patient's arm. The nanofibre mesh is actually made up of a polymer that is compatible with blood components. The polymer is synthesised from polyethylene-co-vinyl alchohol (EVOH), and various zeolites that can easily adsorb toxins like creatinine from blood.
According to the researchers, the new design of the nanofibre mesh is still in its early stages and not yet ready for production. But the team is confident that their nanofiber mesh will soon be a feasible, compact and cheap alternative to dialysis for kidney failure patients across the world.
Read more about causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of kidney disease.
Reference: Research highlight from MANA, the International Center for Materials Nanoarchitectonicsat NIMS, Tsukuba, Japan
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