Introduction
The idea of an artificial kidney, or any artificial organ for that matter, seems like such a complex idea only to be understood by those that have specialized in fields such as nephrology or biomedical engineering. The kidney is such a complex organ. How can its function be duplicated, let alone explained to medical laypeople? Amazingly, kidney dialysis, which for all practical purposes is an artificial kidney that functions in removing solutes and toxins from the blood, is actually not as complex as one might imagine. In fact, the mechanism by which dialysis works involves simple diffusion and osmosis, which is generally taught to children in the United States as early as middle school. The study of artificial organs can seem intimidating and beyond the comprehension of those with only a general knowledge of science. However, the study of artificial kidneys provides an amazing opportunity to display how even the most fundamental and seemingly simple concepts in science can be used to revolutionize modern medicine. Imagine a middle schooler's, or even a high schooler's excitement, when they realize they have the capability and background knowledge to create their own version of kidney dialysis.
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