This trial is part of broader efforts to explore the potential of pig organs for transplants, particularly emphasizing the use of pig kidneys.

A groundbreaking trial focusing on gene-edited pig organs is set to begin later in the spring of 2025, spearheaded by eGenesis in collaboration with OrganOx.

In the U.S., over 35,000 individuals are hospitalized annually due to acute liver failure, with many unable to find suitable donors for liver transplants.

The use of animal organs in transplants raises ethical concerns, including the risk of virus transmission and the treatment of the animals involved.

Despite these concerns, many patients on dialysis are eager to participate in xenotransplant trials, hoping for improved quality of life.

Recent cases, such as that of Towana Looney, who lived for 130 days with a gene-edited pig kidney before rejection, provide valuable data for ongoing research.

The first successful pig heart transplant in a human occurred in January 2022, involving David Bennett, but the heart functioned for only two months.

Subsequent attempts with pig kidneys have also faced challenges, as seen in the cases of patients like Rick Slayman and Lisa Pisano, who did not survive long after their transplants.

Historically, xenotransplantation has encountered significant hurdles, with early attempts dating back to the 1960s, including the notable case of Baby Faye in 1984.

While ethical concerns persist, proponents argue that using pigs, which are already a food source, may alleviate some of these issues.

The challenges faced in xenotransplantation highlight the need for ongoing research and reevaluation of candidate selection for these experimental procedures.

The liver's unique regenerative abilities suggest that a pig liver could potentially support recovery in patients with liver issues.