Pig Kidney Thrives in Human Recipient for Over a Month

In a groundbreaking advancement in the realm of organ transplantation, health experts have achieved a major milestone by successfully implanting a genetically modified pig kidney into a brain-dead patient in the United States (US), where the kidney functioned effectively for over a month. This achievement holds the promise of revolutionizing cross-species organ donation.

Robert Montgomery, the director of the New York University (NYU) Langone Transplant Institute, announced this significant breakthrough during a press briefing. He elaborated on how the genetically edited pig kidney, when transplanted into a human recipient, exhibited remarkable resilience, representing a pivotal stride forward in the field of medical science.

This accomplishment follows previous experiments conducted by Montgomery and his team in September and November 2021, involving the transplantation of genetically modified pig kidneys. However, the recent experiment focused on a specific genetic modification that targeted the gene responsible for ‘hyperacute rejection’. This modification effectively prevented immediate rejection and was complemented by the use of clinically approved immunosuppressive drugs.

Also Read :Illegal International Kidney Transplant Ring exposed in DHA Lahore

To further enhance the acceptance of the transplanted kidney, the team introduced the pig’s thymus gland into the kidney’s outer layer. This strategic move aimed to facilitate the host’s immune cells in recognizing the pig’s cells as a part of their own, thereby reducing the risk of delayed rejection.

The transplantation procedure involved removing the recipient’s own kidneys and replacing them with the genetically modified pig kidney. Remarkably, the transplanted kidney began producing urine immediately. Extensive monitoring revealed optimal levels of waste products and no discernible signs of rejection. Additionally, during the monitoring period, there was no evidence of porcine cytomegalovirus, a potential trigger for organ failure.

This achievement holds immense promise for the future of organ transplantation and opens up new avenues for successful cross-species organ donation, potentially addressing the critical shortage of organs for transplantation and offering hope to countless patients in need of life-saving procedures