Magazine

Piglet Startups: Gene-Hacked Organ Donors for Humans

Japanese startup PorMedTec has successfully cloned three piglets to create viable organ donors for human transplantation, using gene-edited cells from US biotech company eGenesis. This breakthrough in xenotransplantation aims to address the global organ shortage crisis, particularly in Japan and the US, where many patients languish on long waiting lists. Despite challenges in long-term acceptance, recent experiments like pig liver transplants show promise in advancing medical research and potentially saving lives.

Staff Editor February 19, 2024

In a groundbreaking move, Japanese startup PorMedTec recently announced the successful cloning of three piglets with genetically modified organs that could potentially be used for human transplantation. The company’s innovative approach involves importing gene-edited cells from the US biotech startup eGenesis to create genetically modified pig embryos. These embryos are then implanted into a sow, with the ultimate goal of producing organs that are less likely to be rejected by the human immune system, a significant hurdle in xenotransplantation.

The significance of this achievement cannot be understated, as Japan, like many other countries including the US, is facing a critical shortage of organs for transplantation. With only a fraction of those in need receiving organ transplants each year, the development of donor animals could revolutionize the field of organ transplantation and save countless lives.

While the concept of using genetically modified pigs as organ donors is not entirely new, previous attempts have faced challenges in ensuring long-term acceptance of the organs by the human body. However, recent advancements, such as the successful transplantation of a genetically modified pig liver to a brain-dead patient in the US, are showing promising results and pushing the boundaries of medical science.

The collaboration between PorMedTec and eGenesis marks a significant milestone in the field of xenotransplantation, with the successful production of donor animals outside the United States opening up new possibilities for organ transplantation on a global scale. The potential applications of this technology extend beyond just organ transplants, with researchers exploring the possibility of transplanting pig kidneys into human fetuses with kidney disease, paving the way for more personalized and effective treatment options.

As the Japanese startup continues to make strides in genetic engineering and organ transplantation, the future of xenotransplantation looks brighter than ever. With ongoing research and clinical trials, the dream of overcoming the organ shortage crisis and providing life-saving treatments to those in need is becoming increasingly within reach. The successful cloning of genetically engineered pigs in Japan represents a significant step forward in realizing the full potential of xenotransplantation and bringing hope to patients awaiting organ transplants worldwide.