Xenotransplantation – the science of transplanting animal organs into human bodies – has been catapulted out of the realm of science fiction and firmly into the real world.
A pig kidney has successfully worked inside a human patient for 271 days, marking the longest time on record, according to doctors.
A genetically modified pig kidney functioned in a human for 271 days, setting a new record for xenotransplantation.
In January 2026, Tim Andrews, who had received a genetically edited pig kidney in January 2025, became the recipient of a human kidney.
Researchers say the success story of Tim Andrews shows how pig kidneys can help “bridge the gap between end-stage kidney failure and a human transplant, allowing a patient to forgo dialysis.
In January 2026, Tim Andrews, who had received a genetically edited pig kidney in January 2025, became the recipient of a donated human kidney.
The Jan.
NEW YORK, June 11, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- For patients living with Kidney Failure, everyday can feel like a waiting game.
June 12, 2025 -- Over 100,000 Americans are waiting for life-saving kidney transplants, with 17 dying each day.
As organ illness grows with age, so does the chances of not finding a matching donor.
In January 2026, Tim Andrews, who had received a genetically edited pig kidney in January 2025, became the recipient of a human kidney.
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