Abstract
Background/Aims: Recent advances in nanotechnology have made it possible to mass-produce ultrathin silicon membranes with pore sizes in the range of nanometers. In this study, we investigate the possibility of employing ultrathin nanoporous silicon membranes with pore diameters of 5 and 20 nm for dialysis of human whole blood by performing in vitro clearance and hemocompatibility assessments. Methods: A mini blood dialyzer is fabricated by mounting nanoporous silicon membranes on a Teflon structure. Clearance is calculated based on the concentration of sodium, chloride, ionized calcium, total CO<sub>2</sub>, glucose, creatinine and hematocrit measured before and after dialysis. Blood activation is assessed by flow cytometry. Results: Blood contact with the nanoporous membranes induces considerable leukocyte activation. Coating of the membranes with polyethylene glycol significantly improves hemocompatibility without blocking the nanopores. Conclusion: Silicon nanoporous membranes are potential candidates for fabrication of miniaturized blood dialyzers. Their mechanical strength and hemocompatibility can be further improved.
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