The human kidney was the first organ to be approximated by a machine. The “artificial kidney” was invented during World War II. During the Eisenhower years dialysis with the artificial kidney became standard treatment for chronic kidney failure. In our la

Humes Research Update: Spring 1999

Thank you for your interest in the research of David Humes, M.D., Chairman of the Department of Internal Medicine at the University of Michigan Medical Center in Ann Arbor (formerly Chief, Medical Service, VA Medical Center, Ann Arbor).

We are pleased to update you on Dr. Humes’ most recent efforts to create new treatments for kidney failure. In large animal studies, the Humes lab demonstrated the feasibility of an extracorporeal (outside-the-body) renal assist device (RAD). These results were reported in the journal Nature Biotechnolgy (April 30 1999). This innovation, incorporating living cells, is expected to improve outcomes for patients suffering acute renal failure, while speeding their time to recovery in the intensive care unit – the costliest health care setting. As a result of this work, the stage is now being set to commence first-phase human trials of the RAD. Even at this early stage this new technology must being carefully scrutinized to assure its safety for use in humans. While that review proceeds, we continue to improve the design and function of the device.

Experience with the RAD adds to our storehouse of technical knowledge towards the ultimate goal: creating an implantable replacement organ for chronic renal failure. Future steps call for developing an implantable filter that may extend the time between dialysis sessions for patients in chronic renal failure, and refining an implantable EPO-hormone dosing device designed to overcome the anemia to which these patients are prone. These endeavors are being undertaken not by the Humes academic lab, which continues basic research on kidney tissue engineering, but by a private company* which is developing the basic research findings into clinical treatments. Availability to patients of the envisioned "bioartificial" kidney is still some years away, though we hope to see the intermediate devices deployed sooner.

Many patients have asked to support this research by participating in human trials of experimental devices. If and when it becomes appropriate, we will notify correspondents of a need for volunteers. Similarly, many have asked to help move this technology forward with financial contributions. In response, The University of Michigan has established a fund to advance academic research and teaching of kidney tissue engineering. For details contact:

Medical Center Alumni and Development Office

301 E. Liberty, Suite 300

Ann Arbor, Michigan 48104

Address you inquiry to the attention of Mary Young. If you wish to include a check, make it payable to the University of Michigan and note on it that it is for the Kidney Tissue Engineering Research. Fund.

Please excuse the impersonal nature of this communication. Our small lab has a hard time responding promptly to the many requests for information, but we are acutely aware of the urgency felt by patients and their loved ones in seeing this technology move forward. We are doing everything we can to speed the work.

* Disclosure: The University of Michigan, Dr. Humes and other innovators of the technology have financial interests in the company. For information contact UM Technology Management Office. Wolverine Tower 2071. 3003 South State Street . Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1280