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4w ago

First Pig Liver Transplant into Human Marks Major Medical Milestone

Chinese researchers successfully transplanted a gene-edited pig liver into a brain-dead patient, with the organ functioning for 10 days, demonstrating potential for future clinical applications.

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FILE - A miniature pig waits for visitors to feed it at a zoo in Shanghai, China, on Thursday Feb. 15, 2007. (AP Photo/Eugene Hoshiko, File)

Overview

  • The genetically modified pig liver, transplanted as an auxiliary organ, produced bile and maintained blood flow without signs of rejection during the 10-day trial.
  • The liver was sourced from a Bama miniature pig with six genetic modifications to reduce immune rejection and improve compatibility with humans.
  • The procedure was conducted ethically, with family consent and approval from medical authorities, and was terminated at the family's request.
  • This breakthrough, published in the journal Nature, highlights the potential of pig livers as temporary 'bridge' organs for patients awaiting human transplants.
  • Researchers plan further studies, including trials on living patients and complete liver replacements, while addressing long-term functionality and ethical considerations.