A new generation of artificial lungs

People with advanced COPD often suffer from impaired lung function and a significantly reduced quality of life. One possible treatment option is extracorporeal carbon dioxide removal (ECCO₂R). This process involves circulating blood outside the body and removing excess carbon dioxide from it. However, the procedure has so far only been used in severe cases due to the invasive nature of the treatment and potential complications such as blood clots, bleeding or infections.

The BioLung project is taking a new approach: an artificial lung with a bionic, three-dimensional capillary structure is designed to replicate the natural flow patterns of blood, thereby enabling a particularly gentle and efficient exchange of gases. This innovative membrane technology is modelled on the architecture of natural blood vessels and is intended to significantly improve the system’s biocompatibility and long-term stability.

From technology development to pre-clinical validation

The aim of the teams during the first funding phase of GO-Bio next  is to further develop the artificial lung based on the innovative capillary membrane concept and to establish an automated manufacturing process. The system will then undergo comprehensive pre-clinical testing. The focus is on performance, biocompatibility and safety in comparison with existing clinical procedures.

Alongside the technical development, the project team is analysing potential areas of application and preparing a business model. The aim is to move the technology into the clinical approval process following successful validation. Long term, the project will form the basis for a spin-off and the development of new treatment options for patients with chronic lung diseases.

More on funded GO-Bio projects on the overview page