Scientists keep a human alive with a genetically engineered pig liver

Back to news list

Source: ScienceDaily Health

Original: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251207031325.htm...

Published: Sun, 07 Dec 2025 06:35:37 EST

Scientists from China have successfully transplanted a genetically modified liver from a miniature pig into a 71-year-old brain-dead patient. The liver functioned normally for 10 days with no signs of rejection, producing bile and pig albumin, while blood circulation in the organ remained stable. The genetic modifications included modifications of six genes that reduced the risk of hyperacute rejection by the immune system. Immunosuppressants prevented the activation of T- and B-lymphocytes, thereby suppressing the immune response. However, the patient eventually died and the liver had to be removed due to complications. This experiment is the first evidence that genetically engineered pig livers can temporarily support human liver functions and paves the way for further xenotransplantation research in patients with liver failure[1][6][8][9].