“First Recipient of Genetically Modified Pig Kidney Transplant Dies Months After Procedure”
Richard “Rick” Slayman, the first human to receive a genetically modified pig kidney transplant, has passed away nearly two months after undergoing the groundbreaking procedure.
Slayman, aged 62 and suffering from end-stage kidney disease, received the transplant in March at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. Pig kidney transplants
In a statement released on Saturday, the hospital clarified that there was “no indication” that his death was directly related to the transplant. The transplant surgeon had expressed hopes that the transplanted kidney would function effectively for a minimum of two years.
“The Mass General transplant team is deeply saddened by the unexpected loss of Mr. Rick Slayman,” the hospital’s statement read. “Mr. Slayman will always be remembered as a symbol of hope for numerous transplant patients worldwide, and we are profoundly grateful for his confidence and commitment to advancing the field of xenotransplantation.” Pig kidney transplants
“The surgery marked a significant milestone in the field of xenotransplantation — the transplantation of organs from one species to another — aimed at addressing the organ shortage for individuals in need of transplants. The endeavor to genetically modify animal organs is driven by the hope that the human body will accept the foreign tissue without rejection.
In a statement released by the hospital, Slayman’s family expressed gratitude to his medical team: “Their dedicated efforts in pioneering xenotransplantation provided our family with an additional seven weeks with Rick, and the memories we created during that time will forever remain cherished in our minds and hearts.” Pig kidney transplants
“His family described him as kind, quick-witted, and ‘fiercely dedicated to his family, friends, and co-workers.’
“After undergoing the transplant, Rick expressed that one of his motivations for undergoing the procedure was to offer hope to the thousands of individuals in need of a transplant to survive,” the statement continued. “Rick achieved that objective, and his hope and positivity will endure indefinitely.” Pig kidney transplants
Last month, a 54-year-old woman from New Jersey became the second individual ever to receive a genetically modified pig kidney transplant.
In the United States, over 100,000 individuals are currently on the organ transplant waiting list. Tragically, thousands pass away each year before they can receive a transplant.” Pig kidney transplants
