The European Renal Association (ERA) Congress is one of the world’s most important gatherings for kidney health professionals and researchers, bringing together thousands of nephrologists, scientists, and innovators to share the latest advancements in kidney care. This year, the 62nd edition, held from June 4th to June 7th in the vibrant city of Vienna, was no exception. Amid the historic architecture and bustling conference halls, the Artificial Kidney Innovation Lab made its mark with two exciting contributions that reflect the spirit and ambition of our mission. More can be found on the ERA 2025 website.
Our researchers João Brás, Dian Bolhuis and Dr. Karin Gerritsen presented pioneering work that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in dialysis and artificial kidney development. From the promise of lightweight, portable dialysis devices to novel strategies for removing the most stubborn toxins in kidney failure, our team is helping shape the future of kidney replacement therapies.
Tackling the Toughest Toxins: Synergy in Action
João Brás showcased another line of our resaearch that delves into one of the key challenges in dialysis: the removal of protein-bound uremic toxins (PBUTs)—a group of harmful waste products that are tightly bound to plasma proteins like albumin and are notoriously difficult to eliminate with conventional dialysis.The team explored a new, synergistic approach: combining chemical displacers (like ibuprofen and certain fatty acids) with increased sodium concentrations to “free” these toxins from their protein bindings. Using carefully controlled in vitro experiments, they found that certain combinations—especially sodium with caprylic acid—significantly enhanced toxin removal, far beyond what each agent could achieve alone. One standout result was a threefold increase in the free fraction of the toxin p-cresyl sulfate, which opens the door to more effective detoxification strategies in future dialysis technologies.
This work taps into a hot area of research in artificial kidney development: improving the clearance of molecules that accumulate in the body and contribute to complications like cardiovascular disease and cognitive decline. Our findings highlight a path toward more selective, targeted dialysis treatments with potentially fewer side effects.
Smarter, Smaller, Safer: The First-in-Human Trial of the Neokidney™
Presented by Dr. Karin Gerritsen and Dian Bolhuis, the first-in-human clinical trial of the Neokidney™, a portable dialysis device developed by Nextkidney, captured attention for its potential to transform home hemodialysis. Today’s home hemodialysis machines are heavy (weighing over 23 kg) and consume large amounts of dialysate (typically over 20 liters per session). The Neokidney, in contrast, is a sleek 13 kg device that requires only 4.5 liters per session—and it’s designed for short, frequent dialysis treatments at home.
The study evaluated the safety and effectiveness of this device in real patients. The results were promising: no serious adverse device effects were reported, and a few minor device-related issues have already been addressed through thoughtful redesign and formulation improvements. Importantly, the trial demonstrated that Neokidney can deliver effective dialysis in a compact, user-friendly format—a major step forward in making life-saving care more accessible, convenient, and patient-centered.
This innovation reflects a broader movement in the field: replacing burdensome dialysis regimens with more flexible, human-centered solutions. By enabling short, frequent sessions, the Neokidney aligns with current thinking on how to better mimic the natural function of the kidney and improve quality of life.
Looking Ahead
ERA 2025 was not just a showcase of progress—it was a reminder of how urgent the need is for innovation in kidney care. As the global burden of chronic kidney disease grows, so does the responsibility to move beyond traditional dialysis. From portable, patient-friendly devices to novel and creative strategies for better toxin removal, our lab is at the forefront of this transformation.
We’re proud of João, Dian, and Karin for representing our work on an international stage, and we look forward to translating these innovations into clinical practice. The future of kidney care is lighter, smarter, and more precise—and we’re building it together.