Biological Reactors As Renal Substitutes

Abstract

It is the goal of research on renal substitutes to develop systems that may be more physiologic in that they provide continuous purification, provide selective adaptive transport mechanisms, are suitable for in situ use and aid other physiologic processes. In an effort to meet these goals, the concept of using specific strains of microorganisms (biological reactors) was studied. Batch reactor studies, carried out in uitro with normal urine in an aerobic environment, were done to assess the mass transfer characteristics of select strains of microorganisms, based upon the removal of nitrogenous metabolites. Appreciable quantities of these metabolites (urea, creatinine and uric acid) were removed. Studies indicated that mixed strains of microorganisms are required and that interdependence among the, different strains exists. For certain solutes, such as creatinine, there was a temperature dependence. While further work is required, these background studies stimulate further research into the possibility of applying nature's own mechanisms for the treatment of renal failure. Whether as viable species or as carriers of enzymes, biological reactors may be useful in combination with other present technologies and in the design of future treatment modalities.