What is the study about?
The study in Nature discusses successful kidney transplants from genetically modified pigs to monkeys.
What challenges does this solve?
Two main issues: organ rejection and the risk of transferring animal viruses to humans.
How were the pigs genetically modified?
69 changes were made to the pig's genetic code. Three antigens causing rejection were removed, seven human genes were added to reduce immune system hostility, and all pig virus genes were deactivated.
What were the results?
The modified pig kidneys lasted much longer in monkeys compared to previous attempts. When combined with immune-suppressing medicines, the monkeys survived up to 758 days post-transplant.
How close is this to human trials?
The study brings the technique a step closer to clinical testing for human transplants.
What is the global impact?
This could offer a solution to the worldwide shortage of organs for transplantation.
Are there any risks?
The study has minimized risks related to organ rejection and animal-to-human virus transmission, but more research is needed.
What's the next step?
Further studies and eventually clinical trials to test the viability of these genetically modified pig kidneys for human transplantation.
