UCSF: A look back on 2012 milestones

January 11, 2013

Dear Friends,

Greetings for 2013! As we get ready for the year ahead, we look back on the milestones we achieved in 2012:

  • We developed a reliable manufacturing process for our silicon nanopore membranes.
  • We created testing systems for long-term cell function that will enhance the continual performance of the device.
  • We received a $2.25-million grant from the United States National Institutes of Health (NIH).
  • We received generous gifts from the John and Marcia Goldman Foundation, Wildwood Foundation, and numerous other contributors making 2012 a record year for philanthropic support.
  • We were selected for the new United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) program Innovation Pathway 2.0 which aims to bring breakthrough medical device technologies to patients faster and more efficiently and is helping us get closer to clinical trials in the most efficient and safest way possible.
  • Our Biodesign Laboratory gained a postdoctoral nephrology fellow, who is spearheading testing for 2013, as well as several graduate and undergraduate students in engineering.
  • Medical Director William Fissell relocated to Vanderbilt University where he serves as an associate professor of medicine.

And let’s not forget that thanks to you, our Facebook community is growing by the day—500+ and counting! It’s through your likes, shares, interest, and support that we’re gaining the momentum we need to bring us closer to our goal. We have some plans for new ways to share even more about what keeps us busy in the lab every day. Keep up the amazing work!

With these facets in place, we will be turning our attention to scaling prototypes for testing the hemofilter and the cell function in 2013. Both tests will require several rounds of detailed experiments, specialized lab supplies, and skilled technicians. Your continued support makes possible more frequent tests for more robust data and timely progress. Please consider a tax-deductible donation to The Kidney Project in 2013. All gifts make a difference. Visit kidney.ucsf.edu to donate.

I look forward to continuing the conversation with you on The Kidney Project Facebook page. We are encouraged by your interest, support, and stories. Thank you, and warmest wishes for your 2013!

Sincerely,

Shuvo Roy
The Kidney Project