Researchers will soon test whether livers from a gene-edited pig could treat liver failure patients – by temporarily filtering their blood so their own organ can rest and maybe heal.
The first-of-its-kind clinical trial has been cleared by the Food and Drug Administration, according to pig producer eGenesis, which announced the step last week with its British partner OrganOx.
The Associated Press reports that the latest study, which is expected to launch later this year, is a twist on the quest for animal-to-human organ transplants.
Researchers won’t transplant the pig liver but instead will attach it externally to study participants.
The liver is the only organ that can regenerate, but the question is whether having the pig’s liver filter the patient’s blood for several days could give it that chance.
In experiments with four deceased bodies, that “bridge” attempt showed the pig liver could support some functions of a human liver for two or three days, said Mike Curtis, CEO of Massachusetts-based eGenesis, which genetically modifies pigs so their organs are more humanlike.
The trial will enrol up to 20 patients in intensive-care units who don’t qualify for a liver transplant, he said. A device made by OrganOx, currently used to preserve donated human livers, will pump participants’ blood through the pig liver.
It’s the latest step in attempts to use gene-edited pig organs to save human lives. Pig kidneys from eGenesis and another pig producer, United Therapeutics, are being used in experimental transplants.
See more from MedicalBrief archives:
Genetically engineered pigs put xenotransplantation back in the spotlight
Gene-edited piglets opening door to animal organ transplants
Chinese team reports xenotransplant and first-step liver experiment