Scientists successfully conducted the first transplant of a pig organ into a human

• This is the first transplant of a pig organ into a human in history, which took place in China.
• The organ functioned for nine days, but signs of rejection appeared.
• Experts believe that widespread use of such transplants is still a long way off.

Scientists first performed a transplant of a pig organ from a genetically modified pig to a brain-dead patient. After the operation, the organ functioned for a total of nine days, starting from the new study.

This operation is part of research in the field of xenotransplantation, aimed at solving the problem of organ shortages for transplantation. According to the World Health Organization, only about 10% of global demand in such transplants is satisfied.

The research was conducted by a team from the First Hospital of Huanan Medical University in China. The patient, a 39-year-old man, was declared brain-dead after a hemorrhage. Prior to the operation, consent was obtained from his family.

The organ, which received six genetic modifications, did not show signs of rejection immediately after the transplant. However, during the study, problems were identified: the patient exhibited a reaction that could be related to blood clotting issues.

After the transplant, the organ began to show signs of rejection. As a result, at the request of the family, the operation was stopped. Researchers noted that additional measures are needed to improve immunosuppressive strategies and genetic modifications.

Experts emphasize that the transplantation of pig organs is complicated due to their sensitivity to influences from the external environment, infections, and contamination. They believe that before widespread use of such transplants is possible, significant improvements in the results must be achieved.

The research was published in the journal Nature Medicine, and the scientists noted that additional measures are necessary for optimizing the procedure.

Tags: China/Research