National Kidney Foundation Invests in BMI OrganBank to Enhance Kidney Transplant Innovation

Investment in Transformative Kidney Technology

The National Kidney Foundation (NKF) has recently made a strategic investment in BMI OrganBank, a leading medical device firm based in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. This investment aims to advance the development of innovative technologies that enhance kidney transplantation. The NKF's Innovation Fund is playing a crucial role in supporting BMI OrganBank as it prepares for important clinical studies on its room temperature machine perfusion (RTMP) platform. This groundbreaking technology is designed to improve outcomes for kidney transplant patients and reduce the waiting time for vital organs.

Recognized by the FDA with Breakthrough Device Designation, BMI OrganBank's portable kidney preservation device holds the potential to revolutionize the transplant process. Its RTMP technology allows for functional assessment of kidneys prior to transplantation and significantly extends preservation times. With over 90,000 Americans currently on the waiting list for kidney transplants, this innovation directly addresses the urgent need for viable organs.

Kevin Longino, CEO of the NKF and a kidney transplant recipient himself, expressed the impact this investment could have: "Every kidney that goes unused represents a life that could have been saved. By investing in companies like BMI OrganBank, we want to accelerate a technology that aims to reduce discarded kidneys and bring more lifesaving transplants to patients in need." Longino’s commitment to enhancing patient outcomes is evident through this strategic partnership.

Carrie DiMarzio, CEO of BMI OrganBank, conveyed her gratitude for the NKF's support, stating, "We are honored to receive this strategic investment from the National Kidney Foundation, which significantly advances our efforts to validate RTMP technology through clinical studies." This collaboration highlights a unified effort to bridge the gap between innovative medical discoveries and effective patient care.

About the NKF Innovation Fund

The NKF Innovation Fund was established to fast-track solutions that enhance kidney health by investing in emerging companies with promising therapies and technologies. This funding is a crucial component for bridging the transition from discovery to delivery, allowing innovators to expedite the process of bringing their solutions to those who need them most.

Understanding Kidney Disease

In the United States alone, approximately 37 million adults are affected by chronic kidney disease (CKD), with almost 90% unaware that they have it. The statistics surrounding kidney disease are alarming, with 1 in 3 adults being at risk due to factors like diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity. Certain demographics, particularly individuals of Black or African American, Hispanic or Latino, as well as Native American descent, face increased risks of developing kidney-related complications, highlighting the critical need for preventative strategies and innovative solutions.

BMI OrganBank's Mission

BMI OrganBank is dedicated to developing advanced perfusion systems that facilitate organ and tissue evaluation and preservation. Their flagship product, a portable kidney preservation device, co-developed in collaboration with renowned transplant specialists, is set to undergo rigorous clinical trials. With state-of-the-art facilities located in Winston-Salem and Research Triangle Park, NC, BMI OrganBank is paving the way for the advancement of multiple medical devices based on their proprietary technologies.

The NKF's Ongoing Commitment

The National Kidney Foundation is committed to revolutionizing the approach to kidney health by eliminating preventable kidney diseases, accelerating innovations to improve patient experiences, and addressing inequities in kidney care. For more information on their initiatives and programs, visit kidney.org.

In summary, the investment by the NKF in BMI OrganBank is a progressive step towards enhancing treatments for kidney disease and facilitating more effective organ transplantation. The RTMP technology represents a beacon of hope for numerous patients awaiting lifesaving procedures, directly impacting healthcare in the United States and beyond.