Concentric UV Irradiation for Perfusate Pathogen Inactivation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
There is an insufficient number of suitable donor organs for transplantation, particularly for lung transplants, due to the high risk of transmitting pathogens like HCV from donor lungs to recipients.
Innovation Solution
The use of ex vivo perfusion (EVP) combined with light therapy, such as UVC irradiation or photodynamic therapy (PDT), to inactivate microorganisms in donor organs before transplantation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If donor organs from HCV+ donors are used for transplantation, then organ availability increases, but the risk of pathogen transmission to recipients increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing ex vivo perfusion and light irradiation treatment on donor organs before transplantation to inactivate pathogens in advance. The organ is perfused with a solution containing a photosensitizer, then irradiated with light to activate the photosensitizer and destroy pathogens, ensuring the organ is safe for transplantation before it enters the recipient's body.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a photosensitizer as an intermediary substance that mediates the destruction of pathogens. The photosensitizer is introduced into the organ during perfusion, accumulates in the tissue, and when activated by light, generates reactive oxygen species that inactivate viruses and bacteria, thereby eliminating the harmful effect while preserving the organ.
2Reliability
If light irradiation is applied to perfusate during ex vivo perfusion, then microorganisms are inactivated, but the complexity of the perfusion system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by using the perfusion system to simultaneously perform organ preservation, pathogen inactivation, and photosensitizer delivery. The same perfusate that maintains organ viability also carries the photosensitizer, and the light irradiation unit can be integrated into the existing perfusion setup, allowing one system to achieve multiple objectives without requiring entirely separate equipment.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach effectively decreases and/or inactivates microorganisms in donor organs, increasing their availability for transplantation while minimizing the risk of pathogen transmission to recipients.
Implementation Method 1
a UV radiation-emitting device disposed inside the second chamber for providing irradiation to the perfusate
Implementation Method 2
photodynamic treatment (PDT)
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are apparatuses and methods for irradiating a perfusate. The apparatus includes a tank which defines a first chamber. A separator is located inside the first chamber. The separator defines a second chamber. The first chamber and the second chamber are concentric and have substantially annular cross sections, each having at least one diameter and a substantially common longitudinal axis. A perfusate is introduced into the first chamber by an inlet. A UV radiation-emitting device is disposed inside the second chamber for providing irradiation to the perfusate. Irradiated perfusate is removed from the tank by an outlet. Other apparatuses and systems are described and methods for inactivating micro organisms by performing EVP and irradiating the perfusate.