Richard “Rick” Slayman, the world’s first recipient of a genetically modified pig kidney transplant, has died at the age of 62. The historic surgery took place in March, earlier this year, at Massachusetts General Hospital, offering hope to those awaiting organ transplants.
The man with a pig kidney
As per the details, Massachusetts General Hospital confirmed Richard Slayman’s death on May 11th and emphasized that their investigation found “no indication” that the transplant itself caused his passing.
Slayman had previously received a human kidney transplant in 2018, but it failed in 2023. Due to the critical shortage of donor organs, particularly kidneys – with nearly 90,000 Americans waiting for one – Slayman faced a lengthy wait for a second human transplant.
After enduring complications from dialysis treatments, Slayman’s doctors presented the option of a pig kidney transplant, a pioneering procedure previously attempted only on deceased individuals. Motivated not just by his own need but by the potential to benefit others, Slayman opted for the surgery.
Initially, the pig kidney functioned well, but doctors detected rejection symptoms around a week after the transplant. They successfully managed this early rejection with medication, allowing Slayman to recover enough for discharge from the hospital.
Further details regarding Slayman’s health after leaving the hospital are not known. The Massachusetts General Hospital spokesperson declined to provide additional information at this time.
Slayman’s case represents a significant step towards xenotransplantation, the transfer of organs between different species. The main obstacle to using pig organs in humans is the immune system’s natural rejection of foreign tissue.
Scientists are tackling this challenge through genetic engineering. In Slayman’s case, the pig kidney underwent 69 genetic edits to remove harmful pig genes and introduce specific human genes created by eGenesis, a biotech company.
This research continues to develop, with Lisa Pisano, a 54-year-old woman, recently receiving a genetically modified pig kidney transplant at NYU Langone Health. While her surgery involved a different method of immune system management, both patients highlight the ongoing quest to improve organ availability.
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Slayman’s family acknowledged his passing in a statement, expressing comfort knowing the hope he provided to countless transplant patients. They believe his legacy will inspire patients, researchers, and healthcare professionals working towards a future where organ scarcity is no longer a barrier to life-saving transplants.
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