Recently, United Therapeutics began a very important and historic clinical trial. In pairs, they’re testing the efficacy of pig kidneys with ten genetic edits for human transplantation. With this creative approach, they are addressing the acute organ shortage crisis in the United States. Currently, more than 100,000 people are waiting for transplant, most of them waiting for a kidney transplant. Each year, thousands of these patients meet a fatal end while waiting for a suitable donor organ.
The trial brings the outlook of xenotransplantation — the practice of transplanting organs from one species to another — into the mainstream. The researchers relied on genetically modified pig kidneys. These changes – which “knock out” certain pig genes – stop early organ rejection and excessive growth. Moreover, several human genes have been genetically incorporated into the pig genome to increase compatibility with human recipients.
A New Hampshire man was one of the first to take the leap, going through the trial at Massachusetts General Hospital. That moment became a major inflection point in the campaign. He became the first person in the world to receive a pig kidney transplant and live with the organ for an astonishing 271 days. Over time, the organ fell into disrepair until it was finally removed last month. Unfortunately, the patient developed glomerulosclerosis and has gone back on dialysis while waiting for another chance at a transplant.
As more transplant centers join the initiative, the clinical trial seeks to enroll 50 patients or more. NYU Langone Health, which has already participated in the trial. They were the first to succeed in the first pig kidney transplant into a brain-dead person in New York. The pace of development in this field has been truly astounding. eGenesis, a second U.S. company, is preparing to begin its own clinical trial using pig kidneys.
Internationally, advancements have been made. As scientists in China recently showed, it is indeed possible to live—and live well—using a pig kidney. This case serves as a useful reminder of the limitless potential of xenotransplantation outside U.S. borders. In addition, another patient at Massachusetts General Hospital is doing wonderfully right now with a xenotransplant pig kidney.
The need for these trials, especially with an accelerated vaccine timeline, can’t be stressed enough. The more than 100,000 people waiting for a kidney transplant today underscores the urgent demand for legitimate alternatives. Researchers are diving into xenotransplantation to find new answers. At the same time, their efforts are saving thousands of lives and helping to relieve the burden on transplant waiting lists across the country.
