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Researchers at the Fourth Military Medical University (China) transplanted a gene-modified pig liver into a human.

More about the Research

The objective was to observe whether a gene-edited pig liver could survive and serve functions within a human body -> Scientists aimed to determine if such organs could act as a "bridge therapy" for patients suffering from acute liver failure while they wait for a suitable human donor liver.

How did the scientists modify the pig liver for transplantation?

The scientists used advanced CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing technology to modify the liver of a Bama miniature pig.

They edited six specific genes to make the pig liver compatible with the human immune system.

• They removed genes that trigger rejection, such as GGTA1 , CMAH , and B4GALNT2, which produce antigens causing hyperacute rejection in humans -> Next, they inserted human genes like CD46 , CD55 , and CD59, which regulate the immune response and prevent clotting.

These modifications reduced the risk of rejection and improved vascular compatibility between the pig liver and the human body.

What did the researchers found during the 10-day observation period?

During the 10-day observation period, the researchers monitored several critical factors. They closely tracked the production of bile and porcine albumin -> Key indicators of liver function.

Researchers found that gene-modified pig liver produced bile and porcine albumin -> indicating that it could perform some basic liver functions.

Researchers also observed stable blood flow through the transplanted organ -> showing proper integration into the human circulatory system.

No signs of acute rejection emerged during the 10-day period. These results suggest that the combination of gene editing and immunosuppression prevented immediate rejection.

Why are pigs being considered as a potential source of organs for humans?

Pigs are considered an ideal source of organs for several reasons

• Their organ size and physiological functions closely resemble those of humans -> making them anatomically compatible.
• Pigs reproduce quickly -> Providing a sustainable supply of organs.
• Advancements in gene-editing technology have made it possible to modify pig organs to reduce the risk of rejection by the human immune system.

These factors position pigs as a promising alternative to address the global shortage of human donor organs.

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Source:

THE HINDU

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