Towana Looney's Historic Xenotransplant: Insights Gathered from 130 Days with a Pig Kidney
Towana Looney's experimental pig kidney was removed after 130 days due to rejection, marking a notable chapter in xenotransplantation research.
Overview
Towana Looney survived for 130 days with a genetically modified pig kidney, the longest survival recorded. Despite her body's rejection of the organ, which occurred post-surgery after the lowering of anti-rejection meds, Looney emphasized her gratitude for the experience as insightful for future xenotransplant research. After the April 4 surgery at NYU Langone Health, she has returned to dialysis but appreciated her time free from treatment. This case represents a significant step in addressing the organ transplant crisis in the U.S., where over 103,000 individuals await suitable organ donations.
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Analysis
- Towana Looney's case highlights the potential of xenotransplantation in addressing organ shortages, having lived 130 days with a pig kidney before its removal due to rejection, setting a record for human-pig organ compatibility.
- Her experience provides valuable lessons for future clinical trials in this emerging field, showing the importance of carefully managing immunosuppression while allowing the immune system to function.
- Looney's journey and the data collected from her case contribute invaluable insights into the development of genetically engineered pig organs, emphasizing both the promise and the pitfalls of this medical research.
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NPR·3M·FAQ
The pig kidney Ms. Looney received had undergone 10 gene edits to make it more compatible with the human immune system and reduce rejection risks.
The rejection occurred after the immunosuppression regimen was lowered to treat an unrelated infection. It's unclear if other factors also played a role, but the change in immunosuppression is linked to the rejection episode.
This experiment contributes by advancing xenotransplantation research, offering hope for an unlimited supply of organs to address critical shortages, where many patients die waiting for a transplant.
During her time with the pig kidney, Ms. Looney was able to live without dialysis for the first time in nine years, enabling her to enjoy more freedom and quality time with her family.
History
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