​In a groundbreaking medical achievement, Chinese doctors have successfully transplanted a genetically modified pig liver into a brain-dead human patient, marking a significant milestone in the field of xenotransplantation. The procedure was conducted on March 10, 2024, at Xijing Hospital of the Fourth Military Medical University in Xi’an, China.

Procedure Details:

  • Donor Organ: The liver was sourced from a genetically modified Bama miniature pig with six specific genetic edits designed to reduce the risk of immune rejection.
  • Surgical Approach: An auxiliary transplant was performed, wherein the pig liver was connected to the patient’s blood supply without removing the existing human liver. This method aims to support the native liver’s function, potentially serving as a “bridge organ” for patients awaiting human liver transplants.

Post-Transplant Observations:

  • Liver Functionality: Over a 10-day period, the pig liver demonstrated key functions, including bile production and the synthesis of albumin, a vital protein. However, the levels of bile and albumin produced were lower than those typically observed in human livers.
  • Immune Response: The patient exhibited no immediate signs of acute immune rejection, indicating a promising compatibility between the genetically modified pig liver and the human host. ​

Ethical Considerations and Future Directions:

The transplant was performed in accordance with strict ethical guidelines, and the study was concluded after 10 days at the request of the patient’s family. Researchers emphasize that while this achievement is a significant step forward, further studies are necessary to evaluate the long-term viability and functionality of pig liver transplants in living human patients. The ultimate goal is to provide temporary support for patients with liver failure, bridging the gap until a suitable human donor organ becomes available. ​

Expert Insights:

Professor Peter Friend, a transplantation expert at Oxford University, described the results as “valuable and impressive.” He noted that although this development does not yet replace human liver transplants, it represents a crucial step toward utilizing genetically modified pig livers to support patients experiencing liver failure. ​

This pioneering surgery offers renewed hope for addressing the global shortage of donor livers and underscores the potential of xenotransplantation in transforming organ transplantation practices.