Two kidneys from a genetically modified pig have been successfully transplanted into a brain-dead human.
Transplanting pig organs in humans promises to increase the number of organs available for transplantation and prevent thousands of deaths in the United States each year due to organ deficiency, according to the study published Thursday in the “American Journal of Agriculture.”
“Although the physiological stress on the body was not an ideal environment to support kidney function, the kidneys produced urine and were not rejected in the short term,” the document released by the scientists states.
Experts say the study provides “important information” and identifies several areas that need more research before organ transplants can be used to help address the current organ shortage.
“This study provides knowledge that cannot be generated in animal models and brings us closer to a future in which organ supply meets an enormous need,” said lead author Jamie E. Locke of the University of Alabama, citing lead author Jamie E. Locke, of the University of Alabama.
According to the publication, the research used a new preclinical human model to answer several important safety questions, in order to advance this type of implant in living humans.
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