Real-time dialysate sensor for personalized dialysis dosing
This technology uses laser-based optical analysis called Raman spectroscopy to measure dozens of chemical markers in dialysis fluid or urine samples from kidney disease patients. By shining light on the fluid and analyzing the scattered light signature, it can simultaneously track multiple waste products and biomarkers without needing separate lab tests for each one. Over multiple sessions, it builds a picture of how individual patients are clearing toxins and responds by recommending adjustments to their dialysis prescription — such as how long they're on the machine or how often they need treatment. The goal is to replace one-size-fits-all dialysis protocols with a continuously updated, data-driven treatment plan tailored to each patient's actual biochemical response.
What you could build
A sensor module integrated into dialysis machines or tubing that continuously analyzes dialysate chemistry and feeds a clinical decision-support system to dynamically personalize each patient's treatment schedule; target buyers are dialysis clinic operators (e.g., DaVita, Fresenius) and dialysis equipment OEMs seeking to differentiate on outcomes.
Who in Virginia should care
Virginia's large network of outpatient dialysis centers, plus medtech and defense-adjacent instrumentation companies in the Northern Virginia and Hampton Roads corridors, would be plausible partners or licensees.
Readiness: Prototype likely
Concept — described but not yet demonstrated. Lab validated — supported by experimental results in the patent. Prototype likely — the text describes a built, working embodiment.
Readiness is inferred from the patent text, not from a lab visit.
The record
- Inventors
- John L. Robertson, Ryan Senger, Pang Du
- Granted
- June 13, 2023
- Status
- Granted patent
- Patent number
- 11674903
Ready to talk?
Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties handles licensing for this technology.
Prosim summaries are generated from public patent text and are not legal advice.