Successful Transplant of Gene-Edited Pig Kidney into Brain-Dead Patient Marks Major Advancement in Animal-Human Transplants

A genetically modified pig kidney transplanted into a brain-dead patient in Alabama worked for seven days, according to researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). The kidney not only produced urine but also removed waste products from the patient's blood. UAB is among several research hospitals in the United States exploring animal-to-human organ transplants, which could help address the organ shortage crisis. While the use of pig organs for transplantation has not been approved by the FDA, these studies show promising results in terms of organ function. However, concerns remain about the potential transmission of pig viruses.