Pig Liver Transplant in Human Marks New Milestone

Chinese scientists have successfully transplanted a genetically modified pig liver into a brain-dead human patient, marking a significant milestone in xenotransplantation. The procedure, which lasted 10 days, demonstrated that the pig liver could function by producing bile and maintaining stable blood flow without signs of immune rejection. The pig liver was sourced from a Bama miniature pig with six gene modifications to prevent rejection and enhance compatibility with human biology. This breakthrough suggests pig livers could serve as 'bridging organs' for patients awaiting human liver transplants or to support liver function temporarily. While the study ended at the family's request, researchers believe such transplants could alleviate the organ shortage crisis, given the organ's complex role in the body. This advancement adds to previous successes with other pig organ transplants, including kidneys and hearts, and highlights the potential of gene-editing technologies in overcoming transplant challenges.