Genetically modified pig kidney transplanted into human

Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) achieved a historic milestone by successfully transplanting a genetically-edited pig kidney into a 62-year-old man with end-stage kidney disease.

The surgery used a pig kidney with 69 genomic modifications. 

The patient who had encountered complications from diabetes and hypertension, had previously undergone a human kidney transplant that eventually failed, leading to dialysis.

Doctors are hopeful the patient will survive for at least two years with the pig kidney, citing previous success in nonhuman primates.

Developed by eGenesis, the pig kidney was edited to remove genes potentially harmful to humans and improve compatibility. While concerns about pig viruses persist, eGenesis aims to further trials, potentially revolutionizing treatments for organ failure.

Previously, a similar attempt involving a genetically modified pig heart occurred in Maryland, although the patient, unfortunately, passed away two months later.

There are over 100,000 patients on organ transplant waitlists and more than 6,000 people die waiting every year.

Shortly after the surgery, the pig organ produced urine, reported the New York Times. Doctors informed the patient is recovering well, offering hope to countless individuals awaiting life-saving organs.