First Animal Kidney Transplant Recipient Released

This is an unprecedented achievement.

Rick Slayman, the first recipient of a kidney transplant from a genetically modified pig, was discharged from the hospital just two weeks after his groundbreaking surgery. Slayman expressed his gratitude and excitement, noting that leaving the hospital with a clean bill of health was one of the happiest moments of his life. He eagerly anticipated spending time with his family and friends without the burden of dialysis, which had significantly impacted his quality of life for many years.

Experts hailed Slayman’s successful surgery as a significant advancement in the field of transplantation. Dr. David Klassen from the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) emphasized the potential benefits for a large number of patients, addressing a longstanding concern within the medical community.

Slayman’s genetically modified pig kidney, provided by eGenesis, demonstrated functionality by effectively filtering urine and removing waste products from his bloodstream. The kidney underwent extensive genetic modifications, including the removal of harmful pig genes and the incorporation of beneficial human genes, to reduce the risk of rejection and infection in humans.

As a Black individual, Slayman’s experience holds particular significance, as ethnic minority patients often face disproportionate challenges in accessing organ transplantation. Dr. Leonardo Riella from Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) views genetically modified pig kidneys as a potential solution to address the organ shortage crisis, particularly benefiting marginalized communities.

Slayman’s procedure, authorized under a compassionate use waiver from the FDA, included the administration of two novel immunosuppressant drugs to prevent organ rejection. Despite facing challenges with type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure, Slayman’s successful surgery offers hope for patients awaiting organ transplants and highlights the potential of genetically modified pig organs in addressing the growing demand for donor organs.