Biohybrid Lung
A membrane oxygenator that incorporates endothelial cells to allow continuous blood flow without the need for or potential risks of anticoagulation therapy will enter animal testing within two years. This biohybrid oxygenator has the potential to provide functionality and durability unachievable with its fully synthetic predecessors. Another project is exploring incorporating endothelial cells and microfabrication technology as used in the semiconductor industry to develop artificial alveolar-capillary modules, which may become the building blocks of biohybrid artificial lungs. A related project is focused on developing biological cellular membranes consisting of co-cultures between pulmonary epithelial and endothelial cells that may result in a robust biological membrane with mechanical and gas transfer properties capable of augmenting or replacing pulmonary structures.
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Chronic Artificial Lung
Through the application of basic tools of chemical engineering transport phenomena to analyze and understand biotransport processes, researchers are truly striving towards the conception of the next generation artificial lung. The goal of the program is to manufacture an artificial lung device which retains the ability to support patients with both acute lung disease and/or a failing chronic condition, and may be incorporated into small implantable devices for temporary support as well as wearable devices for longer-term support.
[figure above: Artificial lung device currently under development]
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Hattler Respiratory Support Catheter
The technology for this unique artificial lung was recently acquired by a device manufacturing company that plans to initiate limited pilot clinical testing of the device in 2003, followed by more extensive testing in the U.S. and Europe. The device’s novel design incorporates insertion of a venous catheter that provides temporary respiratory support for patients with acute lung failure. This represents an entirely unique and new way of "breathing" which reduces the demands and strain placed on the lungs, creating a relief period that improves the ability of injured lungs to recuperate.
Ultimately, the goal of this research is to demonstrate the utilization of a catheter in the presence of pulmonary failure. Such a device may be easily inserted into the venous blood system of a patient with lung failure in order to provide temporary breathing support independent of the lungs. As a result, the proposed Hattler Catheter may one day be utilized in the medical industry to alleviate unhealthy stress and strain on already failing pulmonary systems, as well as reduce the recovery period, and improve the extent of recuperation of unhealthy respiratory systems.
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