For the first time, surgeons have transplanted a genetically modified pig lung into a brain-dead human, with the organ functioning for nine days. The procedure, carried out in China and reported in Nature Medicine, represents a new milestone in xenotransplantation, a field aiming to address the global organ shortage. Currently, only about 10% of the worldwide demand for transplants is met.
The pig lung, taken from a donor with six genetic modifications, was transplanted into a 39-year-old male recipient. The lung remained viable without signs of hyperacute rejection or infection, but within 24 hours began to show fluid buildup and tissue damage. Despite strong immunosuppression, antibodies eventually attacked the organ, leading to significant deterioration. Experts noted that the recipient’s remaining natural lung likely compensated for the failing pig lung.
Challenges and Future Directions
Researchers and specialists caution that the achievement, while promising, is only an incremental step. Lungs present unique challenges in xenotransplantation because they are constantly exposed to environmental pathogens, making them highly vulnerable to immune responses. Brain death itself also complicates the results due to the body’s inflammatory state.
Scientists stress the need for improved genetic modifications, more precise immunosuppressive strategies, and better lung preservation techniques before such transplants can be tested in living patients. Alongside xenotransplantation, other research avenues include regenerating donor lungs with stem cells or rehabilitating human lungs initially deemed unsuitable for transplantation.
While the pig lung transplant shows potential, experts emphasize that clinical application in living patients remains a distant goal.
