BIOART · Training network for developing innovative (bio)artificial devices for treatment of kidney and liver disease

Renal and liver diseases are global public health problems, with the incidences of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and end-stage liver disease (ESLD) rising annually. Due to the lack of donor kidneys, most of ESRD patients depend on dialysis treatment using either an artificial kidney or the peritoneal membrane. Both modes are inefficient in removing uremic waste molecules and inadequately remove excess body fluids, potassium and phosphate contributing significantly to severe patient health problems, poor life quality and high mortality (15-20% per year). The impairment of liver functions has also serious implications and it is responsible for high rates of patient morbidity and mortality. Presently, liver transplantation remains the treatment of choice for ESLD patients but it is limited by both the high costs and severe shortage of donor organs. BIOART ITN will provide state-of-the-art multidisciplinary training for a cohort of 16 young researchers in order to equip them with the skills required to make a significant impact in the treatment of kidney and liver diseases. For this, BIOART ITN will develop:- A prototype artificial kidney devices enabling prolonged / continuous removal of uremic toxins- A prototype bioartificial kidney device that utilizes human renal epithelial cells for removal of uremic toxins.- Prototype bioreactor devices to ensure viability and functions of hepatocyte cells.In fact, BIOART ITN will provide the European Union with specific multidisciplinary expertise in the area of (bio)artificial organs for treatment of kidney and liver diseases. This will be achieved through the training of highly educated researchers able to understand and eventually to manage all scientific, industrial and clinical aspects of these (bio)artificial organs. Fourteen individual RTD Projects will be performed and thirty five scientific training courses will be offered by the host organizations to the recruited young researchers. During four years, the re