Genetically modified pig liver keeps man alive until human organ transplant
NSRI Research Papers1, 1-8 (2026)|
Abstract
A breakthrough in xenotransplantation offers hope for patients on organ waiting lists.
In a medical first, surgeons have successfully used a genetically modified pig liver to temporarily filter the blood of a patient experiencing acute liver failure, keeping him alive long enough to receive a human organ transplant.
The Procedure
The procedure, known as extracorporeal perfusion, involved connecting the patient's circulatory system to the pig liver, which was kept functioning outside the body. The modified liver successfully removed toxins and produced essential proteins for 72 hours.
Genetic Modifications
The pig liver had been genetically engineered to remove specific sugars that trigger hyperacute rejection in humans, and to express human proteins that help regulate blood clotting and immune response.
"This is a significant stepping stone towards fully implantable xenografts," said Dr. Robert Montgomery, the lead surgeon. "It demonstrates that these modified organs can function effectively in a human context, even temporarily."