The BioVentures Podcast

Episode 19 - AR Health Ventures Accelerator Program (Part 6): Extending Longevity of Kidneys Viable for Transplant

In this episode, Dr. Marie Burdine discusses her team's development of a novel drug designed to reduce delayed graft function, a complication that affects about 30% of kidney transplant recipients. DGF occurs when donor kidneys are damaged during transport and fail to function immediately after transplantation, increasing the risk of rejection and prolonged hospitalization. Using a pig transplant model, Dr. Burdine's team is testing whether adding the drug to organ preservation solutions can protect kidneys from this damage. Early results are promising, showing faster recovery of kidney function and reduced injury. If successful, the technology could improve transplant outcomes, expand the number of usable donor organs, and help reduce transplant waiting lists. Dr. Burdine is a cohort member of the most recent AR Health Ventures Accelerator Program (ARHVA). Find more info on the program HERE [https://bioventures.tech/programs/ar-health-ventures-accelerator/].

Episode 18 – [INVENTOR SPOTLIGHT] Dr. Kevin W. Sexton: Surgeon, Scientist, Innovator

In this episode of the BioVentures Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Kevin W. Sexton (surgeon, scientist, and former BioVentures president) to explore his journey from clinical practice to successful health tech innovation. Dr. Sexton shares how early exposure to entrepreneurship and key mentorship moments led him to develop predictive healthcare software later acquired by a Fortune 500 company and reflects on the lessons learned from both successes and failures along the way. Our conversation dives into the realities of innovation in healthcare - from navigating complex adoption barriers and aligning stakeholders, to choosing between software and medical device solutions. Dr. Sexton emphasizes the importance of focusing on real problems, understanding customer needs, and creating true value in the market. He also discusses emerging trends in digital health, including the growing role of AI, faster development cycles, and the evolving landscape of software as a medical device. Whether you're a researcher, clinician, or aspiring entrepreneur, this episode offers practical insights on commercialization, startup strategy, and how innovation can become a meaningful part of an academic career.

Episode 17 - Behind the Build: Creating a Nerve Block Training Model

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Erica Malone and doctoral nursing student Blakely Coppock to discuss their innovative nerve block training model developed at UAMS. Designed to bridge the gap between low-fidelity simulators and real patient care, their 3D-printed, ultrasound compatible arm provides immediate visual feedback when a nerve block is performed correctly. They share the story behind the invention—from kitchen-table prototyping to patent protection—and explain how this low-cost, high fidelity model could transform anesthesia training and improve patient safety.

Episode 16 - Bridging the Innovation Gap: Academia and Industry Partnerships

In this episode of the BioVentures Podcast, we sit down with Michael Geranen, Technology Manager at BioVentures, to explore how industry partnerships help transform academic healthcare innovations into real-world patient solutions. The conversation covers the role of technology transfer offices, what industry partners look for in university inventions, common pitfalls to avoid, and how early disclosure, strong IP strategy, and unmet clinical need drive successful collaborations. Michael also shares insights on evolving partnership models, digital health, and why the future of personalized medicine makes academia–industry collaboration more critical than ever.

Episode 15 - AR Health Ventures Accelerator Program (Part 5): Advancing Early Detection of Acute Kidney Injury

In this episode, we talk with Dr. John Arthur about his team’s development of a rapid urine test that can predict severe acute kidney injury much earlier than current methods. By identifying a more accurate biomarker, this technology could help doctors intervene sooner, guide dialysis decisions, and even make future drug trials more feasible.