Massachusetts, USA—In a significant development in medical science, the first human recipient of a genetically modified pig kidney, Mr. Rick Slayman, 62, has passed away, as announced by the Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston.
Mr. Slayman, a resident of Weymouth, Massachusetts, was battling end-stage renal disease when he underwent the pioneering transplant surgery in March. The four-hour operation was hailed as a major milestone in the quest to alleviate the shortage of human organs available for transplant, offering hope to thousands of patients worldwide.
The hospital expressed deep sorrow over his sudden passing, stating, “We have no indication that it was the result of his recent transplant.” Mr. Slayman’s family also released a statement saying, “Our family is deeply saddened about the sudden passing of our beloved Rick but take great comfort knowing he inspired so many.“
Mr. Slayman had previously received a human kidney transplant at the same hospital in 2018 after seven years on dialysis. However, when the organ failed after five years, he resumed dialysis treatments, leading to his participation in the groundbreaking pig kidney transplant procedure.
The kidney was provided by eGenesis, a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The pig from which the kidney was sourced had been genetically edited to remove genes that could be harmful to human recipients and to add certain human genes to improve compatibility. Additionally, the company inactivated viruses inherent to pigs that have the potential to infect humans.
Kidneys from similarly edited pigs had previously been transplanted into monkeys, with the recipients surviving on average for 176 days, and in one case, for more than two years, according to research published in Nature magazine.
The use of genetically modified pig organs is seen as a promising avenue to address the critical shortage of human organs for transplantation. According to the United Network for Organ Sharing, over 100,000 people in the United States are currently awaiting organ transplants, with kidneys being in the highest demand.
While Mr. Slayman’s passing is a somber moment, his contribution to medical science may pave the way for future advancements in xenotransplantation, offering hope to countless patients worldwide.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
