In a first, scientists transplanted both a pig liver and kidneys into a person who was brain-dead
Scientists have successfully transplanted a genetically modified pig liver and two kidneys into a brain-dead patient. This marks the first time multiple pig organs have been transplanted into a human, demonstrating potential for addressing the critical shortage of human donor organs.
Why it matters
This breakthrough in xenotransplantation could eventually provide a sustainable solution for patients suffering from organ failure who are currently on long waiting lists.
Genetically modified pigs at a farm in Virginia are being bred for their organs. (Andrew Caballero-Reynolds/AFP via Getty) A 53-year-old clinically dead man has become the first person to receive two kidneys and a whole liver from a genetically modified pig. The man’s organ function was sustained for almost five days with consent from his family, and there were no signs that the organs were being rejected in the first 24 hours, according to a study published in Med today.
The article reports on a scientific study and medical procedure using neutral, factual language without political or ideological framing.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in