Breakthrough in Cross-Species Lung Transplantation Using Genetically Modified Pigs

In a pioneering study published in Nature Medicine, researchers successfully transplanted a genetically altered pig lung into a human donor who was declared brain dead. The transplanted lung remained functional and viable for nine days, marking a significant milestone in xenotransplantation efforts. The pig from which the lung was sourced had undergone gene editing to remove specific antigens, reducing the likelihood of immune rejection. During the nine-day period, the lung demonstrated signs of initial acceptance but also showed signs of immune response and damage at various points, with rejection symptoms appearing by day six. Despite these challenges, this initial success offers promising prospects for addressing the global organ shortage.

The study involved transplanting the left lung of a gene-edited pig into a 39-year-old brain-dead patient. The donor pig was genetically modified using CRISPR technology to eliminate key antigens that could trigger immune reactions. The lung was monitored for function and immune response, showing no immediate rejection. However, signs of lung damage emerged within 24 hours, and immune-mediated rejection was observed at days three and six, leading to the end of the experiment at day nine.

This breakthrough highlights the potential of xenotransplantation as a viable solution to organ shortages, although further improvements are necessary. Future work will focus on refining genetic modifications and immunosuppressive treatments to allow longer-lasting and more successful lung transplants across species.

The findings mark a significant step forward in transplant medicine, opening new avenues for saving lives through cross-species organ transplantation.