Pig Kidney Transplant Patient Alive 2 Months Later
A Major Milestone in the Quest for Animal-to-Human Transplants
An Alabama woman, Towana Looney, has made a significant milestone by becoming the longest living recipient of a pig organ transplant, with her new kidney functioning normally for 61 days and counting. This achievement is a significant step forward in the development of animal-to-human transplants, which hold promise in addressing the severe shortage of transplantable human organs.
A New Chapter in Life
Looney, 53, is thrilled with her progress, saying, “I’m superwoman, laughing about outpacing family members on long walks around New York City as she continues her recovery. It’s a new take on life.” She was previously on dialysis for eight years and had been told she would likely never receive a donated human kidney due to her high levels of antibodies.
A Groundbreaking Procedure
Dr. Robert Montgomery, who led Looney’s transplant at NYU Langone Health, described her kidney function as “absolutely normal.” He expressed optimism that her new kidney will continue to function well for a significant period, stating, “We’re quite optimistic that this is going to continue to work and work well for, you know, a significant period of time.”
A New Era in Organ Transplantation
Pig organ transplants are being genetically altered to make their organs more human-like. This technology holds promise in addressing the severe shortage of transplantable human organs, with over 100,000 people waiting for a transplant in the US alone. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) allows “compassionate use” cases, where hospitals can conduct experimental transplants for individuals with no other options.
A Precious Experience
Looney’s progress is a significant morale boost for the medical community, with Dr. Tatsuo Kawai of Massachusetts General Hospital noting, “We have to learn from each other.” He is working with United Therapeutics, which supplied Looney’s kidney, to develop a trial.
Fighting for a Second Chance
Looney is not just a recipient of this groundbreaking procedure but also an advocate for others who are waiting for transplants. She has been sharing her story through social media, offering words of encouragement and support to those who are considering or have undergone xenotransplantation. Her message is simple: “I want to be, like, some educational piece for scientists to help others.”
Conclusion
Looney’s remarkable progress is a testament to the potential of animal-to-human transplants. While her new kidney may not last forever, her experience will help inform future attempts and pave the way for more patients to receive this life-changing treatment.
FAQs
* What is xenotransplantation?
Xenotransplantation is the transplant of organs from one species to another, in this case, from pigs to humans.
* How many people are on the waiting list for organ transplants in the US?
Over 100,000 people are waiting for a transplant, with most needing a kidney.
* How long has Towana Looney been living with her new pig kidney?
61 days and counting.
