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## Genetically Altered Pig Kidney Transplant Survives for 32 Days: A Promising Step towards Xenotransplantation

A genetically altered pig kidney has successfully functioned in a brain-dead man for 32 days, marking a significant advancement in the potential use of animal organs for human transplants. Surgeons at NYU Langone Health announced this groundbreaking achievement during a news conference.

Traditionally, the major obstacle in xenotransplantation has been the immediate rejection of organs from different species. However, in this case, the pig kidney was not rejected upon transplantation. Within minutes, it started producing urine and performing the essential functions of a human kidney, such as toxin filtration. The possibilities suggested by this successful integration of a pig kidney into a human body are highly encouraging.

Further reinforcing this breakthrough, researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine have also reported a similar case study. In their research, a brain-dead patient received a pig kidney with ten gene alterations. Remarkably, the kidney was not rejected and continued to function for seven days. The results from this study were published in the esteemed journal JAMA Surgery, following thorough peer review.

These two studies provide hope to bridge the enormous gap between the demand for kidneys and the limited supply. The ability of pig kidneys to sustain normal human functions for an extended duration signifies significant progress. Prior to these recent breakthroughs, such long-term compatibility had not been conclusively demonstrated, according to the involved surgeons and other medical experts.

The potential impact of this achievement is massive, considering the vast number of people on waiting lists for organ transplants, particularly kidneys. According to the United Network for Sharing, as of today, 103,479 individuals in the United States await transplants, with 88,651 specifically in need of kidneys. In 2022 alone, 26,000 people received kidney transplants at NYU Langone. Sadly, many die before receiving a kidney due to prolonged waiting periods and deteriorating health conditions. Furthermore, countless individuals never even make it to the waiting list. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases reports that approximately 808,000 Americans live with end-stage kidney disease, with 69% of them relying on dialysis and the remainder having received kidney transplants.

The key advancements made in both studies involve the pig kidneys’ ability to concentrate urine and eliminate creatinine, a toxic byproduct of muscle function. Jayme E. Locke, the lead author of the JAMA Surgery research, emphasized these critical aspects. The University of Alabama’s experimental procedure could have continued further, but it was concluded out of respect for the deceased patient’s family.

Robert Montgomery, director of the NYU Langone Transplant Institute, expresses optimism based on the extensive information collected from studies involving nonhuman primates. What remains to be seen is how effectively this knowledge translates to human cases. The ongoing research provides valuable insights into the translation of information gained from nonhuman primates to humans.

For the successful NYU Langone transplant, the specially bred pig used for the kidney donation only required a single genetic alteration. This alteration removed a protein that the human immune system typically attacks shortly after surgery. Surgeons also implanted the pig’s thymus gland, which assists in training the immune system, below the outer layer of the kidney. Additionally, immunosuppressive drugs were administered to prevent rejection later on.

While the procedure involving the brain-dead man, who continues to be supported by a ventilator and has a consistent heart rate, demands extensive efforts from critical care personnel, it has yielded valuable insights into the long-term potential of using animal organs. The researchers plan to monitor the patient for another month, gathering further data.

During the news conference, Maurice “Mo” Miller, a 57-year-old brain tumor patient who tragically passed away, was identified as the recipient of the pig kidney. Miller’s sister spoke, highlighting her brother’s appreciation for the contribution he made to the science of transplantation.

In summary, the successful integration and sustained functioning of a genetically altered pig kidney in a brain-dead individual for 32 days represent a significant milestone in xenotransplantation. The potential to address the massive organ transplant demand, particularly for kidneys, is now more tangible. While there are certainly challenges to overcome, advancements such as these should give hope to the countless individuals awaiting life-saving organ transplants.

AI legalese decoder can play a crucial role in ensuring a smooth transition towards using animal organs for human transplants. By analyzing and interpreting legal documents and regulations related to xenotransplantation, the AI legalese decoder can provide clarity and guidance to researchers, surgeons, and policymakers. It can help navigate the complex legal landscape surrounding this groundbreaking medical field, enabling the translation of scientific advancements into ethical and legally sound practices. Additionally, the AI legalese decoder can assist in drafting and reviewing consent forms and ensuring compliance with regulatory frameworks. Through its advanced language processing capabilities, it can streamline the legal aspects of xenotransplantation, facilitating its responsible and efficient implementation.

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