Groundbreaking Pig-to-Human Kidney Transplant Sets New Record in US Surgery

Surgeons in the United States have successfully completed the longest pig-to-human kidney transplant, lasting 61 days. The procedure involved a genetically modified pig kidney being transplanted into a brain-dead patient, marking a significant milestone in organ transplantation. The technique, part of ongoing cross-species transplant research, aims to address the shortage of organs for transplantation. The study showed signs of mild rejection, requiring increased immunosuppression medication. By genetically modifying the pig to remove a biomolecule targeted by human antibodies, immediate rejection was prevented. The use of pigs as potential organ donors is favored due to their organ size, rapid growth, large litters, and existing use in the food industry. However, ethical concerns have been raised regarding the presence of human cells in pig embryos used for hybrid pig-human organ creation.