Pig liver test shows promise for future human transplants

Editor's Note:

A successful test of a genetically modified pig liver attached to a brain-dead human body could have significant implications for liver failure patients, the Associated Press reported January 18.

Conducted at the University of Pennsylvania, the tested method is similar to kidney dialysis in that the genetically modified pig liver remains outside the body. The pig liver used in this case was genetically modified by eGenesis and attached to a device made by OrganOx intended to help preserve donated human livers. Machines kept the donor body’s blood circulating and filtering through the liver for 72 hours, during which the body remained stable and the liver showed no signs of damage.

According to the report, about 10,000 people are on the US waiting list for a liver transplant.