Founded in 2008 by engineering professor Constantin Coussios OBE FREng FMedSci and transplant surgeon professor Peter Friend FMedSci, OrganOx originated from Oxford’s Institute of Biomedical Engineering and the Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences. The company has since become a leader in advanced organ preservation technology.
OrganOx specialises in organ preservation devices that keep donor organs functioning outside the body for significantly longer than traditional methods. Using a technique known as Normothermic Machine Perfusion (NMP), its devices circulate warm, oxygenated fluid through the organ, replicating conditions inside the human body. This enables clinicians to assess organ function in real time and make better-informed decisions about transplantation.
The technology has increased the number of viable organs available for transplant, including those from marginal donors, while reducing the need for emergency and night-time procedures. OrganOx systems have been used in more than 6,000 transplants worldwide and were recently recognised with The Royal Academy of Engineering's MacRobert Award, the longest running and most prestigious prize for UK engineering innovation, for its life-saving technology that is supporting more organ transplants and helping to cut waiting lists.
Oxford University was an early investor in OrganOx, supporting the company with proof-of-concept funding via the University Challenge Seed Fund and investing further through the Spinout Equity Management Fund.
Read the full story on the University of Oxford website.