China Successfully Transplants Pig Kidney with Gene Edits into Human Recipient
In a groundbreaking medical achievement, doctors in China have conducted a historic operation by transplanting a pig’s kidney with multiple gene edits into a brain-dead human recipient. The successful transplantation, which has been ongoing for 13 days, marks a significant milestone in medical science.
First of Its Kind Operation in China
This pioneering procedure, carried out on March 25, represents the first of its kind in China, following similar transplants conducted in the United States. The team of doctors responsible for this groundbreaking operation had recently completed a successful pig liver transplant, showcasing their expertise in the field.
According to Qin Weijun, director of the Air Force Medical University Xijing Hospital, the transplanted kidney has been functioning effectively in the recipient’s body, demonstrating normal urine production and overall success.
Utilizing CRISPR/Cas9 Gene-Editing Technology
Scientists utilized advanced CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing technology to introduce two human genes into the pig used for the transplant. Furthermore, three pig genes known to cause hyperacute rejection were removed, enhancing the compatibility of the transplant, as reported by the university.
Significance of Pig Kidney Transplants
With millions of patients in China suffering from end-stage kidney disease annually, the need for kidney transplants is critical. Despite the high demand, only a fraction of transplants are performed each year. The xenogenic transplants from pigs offer a promising solution due to their metabolic and organ size similarities to humans.
While pigs are preferred for their compatibility, ethical concerns surrounding xenotransplants have been raised, including risks of rejection and disease transmission between species, as well as ethical considerations regarding animal rights.
Despite these challenges, the successful pig kidney transplant in China represents a significant advancement in medical science, offering hope for patients in need of life-saving procedures.
