Man Lives Nine Months With Genetically Modified Pig Kidney Transplant

1-Minute Brief

This case demonstrates the potential for animal-to-human organ transplants to address shortages in donor kidneys.

Key Facts

• Tim Andrews, aged 66, received a genetically modified pig kidney in January 2025.
• The transplant kept the patient off dialysis for nine months.
• The pig kidney functioned in the recipient's body for a record 271 days.
• Andrews had end-stage kidney disease before the procedure.
• The pig kidney served as a temporary solution until a human organ became available.

What Happened

A man with end-stage kidney disease received a genetically modified pig kidney transplant and lived with the organ for nine months until receiving a human kidney.

Why It Matters

The successful use of a pig kidney as a temporary measure may offer new options for patients awaiting human organ transplants and could help alleviate organ shortages.

What's Next

Researchers are expected to further study the long-term safety and effectiveness of animal-to-human kidney transplants. Additional clinical trials may be considered.