How do I know if my device/solution is applicable for the competition?
Phase 1 of the Artificial Kidney Prize calls for both component and integrated prototype solutions that advance the functionality, effectiveness, and/or reliability of artificial kidneys. Eligible individuals and teams are encouraged to submit such solutions; please see the submission form, evaluation criteria, and general solution areas of interest for further guidance.
Is the competition restricted to innovations for a wearable or implantable artificial kidney, as opposed to an innovation to improve dialysis?
The Artificial Kidney Prize is calling for solutions that enable and advance the functionality, effectiveness, and/or reliability of artificial kidneys. This competition aims to accelerate artificial kidney solutions beyond current dialysis methods.
Could a solution from other clinical applications be adapted to address kidney functions for the purposes of the competition?
One of the goals of the Artificial Kidney Prize is to engage experts and solutions from a diverse array of disciplines to innovatively address the challenges of developing an artificial kidney. The Phase 1 areas of interest on the Artificial Kidney Prize website indicate a number of these challenges, and solvers from other applicable fields are encouraged to review them as they consider submitting.
What should be submitted as part of Phase 1?
Phase 1 submissions should include demonstrated scientific and technical proofs of concept with detailed development plans. The Phase 1 submission should include a development plan for the next 3-4 years to advance the solution, in line with the goals of the competition. The submission form also asks for a description of the kidney function(s) the component or system could help replicate in the context of artificial kidneys (see 2018 KHI technology roadmap for further guidance). This description should also include rationale for maturity, safety, and effectiveness claims, such as data from testing (bench or beyond) or other proof of concept evidence. For additional submission requirements, please refer to the submission form.
What type of demonstration data or evidence are you seeking?
It is important that any submission provides a rationale for claims of maturity, effectiveness, and safety. This may be in the form of data from bench, animal, or further testing; or similarly compelling evidence. Each submission must include at least one clear visual, preferably a video file, that demonstrates any functionality described in the submission.
When are proposed solutions expected to start human clinical trials?
The competition aims to accelerate development of artificial kidney solutions toward human clinical trials. Beyond their proposed solution, entrants are asked to provide 3-4-year development plans, as well as identify potential partners or collaborators that would prepare them for successful clinical trial application.
Are solvers required to use the resources provided on the competition website as part of their submission?
Entrants are not required to use any of the resources provided, but they may be helpful in developing submissions. The competition resources page includes information from KidneyX and other organizations about potential solution areas, physiological kidney functions, kidney technology and innovation, patient interaction, and regulatory navigation.