Woman Lives 130 Days with Pig Kidney: Scientific Experiment Brings Hope

Towana Lunni, a woman from Alabama, USA, became part of a groundbreaking medical experiment — she lived 130 days with a genetically modified pig kidney, the longest known survival of a human with such a transplant.

“Grateful, no matter the outcome”
On April 4, doctors detected organ rejection, and the pig kidney was removed. Towana was discharged and returned home.
“The outcome may not have been what everyone hoped for, but these 130 days taught me a lot and gave hope to other patients,” she said.

A new era in medicine: living with a pig organ
Since 2016, Towana had been on dialysis. Her immune system was unable to accept a human kidney. Doctors decided to transplant a genetically modified pig kidney — a first for someone in her condition.

The kidney functioned from November 2023 to April 2024, surpassing previous attempts, which lasted only two months at most.

Why pigs?
Scientists are genetically modifying pigs to make their organs more compatible with humans. This could help address the severe shortage of donor organs.

Facts:
– Over 100,000 people in the U.S. are on the transplant waiting list
– Most are waiting for a kidney
– Thousands die while waiting

Research continues
So far, four pig organs have been transplanted in the U.S.:
– 2 hearts
– 2 kidneys
All previous patients were in critical condition and did not survive long after surgery.

Now, scientists are testing the procedure on more stable patients. In January 2024, a New Hampshire resident received a pig kidney and is still doing well.

Chinese scientists have also reported successful experiments.

Between risk and hope
Towana Lunni’s 130-day journey with a pig kidney marks a new chapter in medicine. While challenges remain, such pioneering steps may one day save thousands of lives. Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!