First Recipient of Genetically Modified Pig Kidney Transplant Passes Away

Richard Slayman, the pioneering recipient of a groundbreaking genetically modified pig kidney transplant, has tragically passed away approximately two months after the groundbreaking procedure took place at the prestigious Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston.

Mr. Slayman, aged 62, had been battling end-stage kidney disease, alongside Type 2 diabetes and hypertension, before undergoing the historic transplant in March.

Massachusetts General Hospital confirmed that there were no indications that Mr. Slayman’s passing was linked to the transplant, which was seen as a beacon of hope in the field of xenotransplantation – transferring organs from one species to another.

Following the transplant, Mr. Slayman no longer required dialysis, a significant milestone indicating the successful integration of the pig kidney into his system.

In a heartfelt statement, MGH expressed deep sorrow at the sudden loss of Mr. Slayman and extended their condolences to his family, highlighting his role in advancing the realm of xenotransplantation.

Richard Slayman’s relatives shared that his decision to undergo the pioneering procedure was fueled by a desire to bring hope to the multitude of individuals awaiting life-saving transplants, a mission he accomplished with unwavering optimism.

While Mr. Slayman’s case marks the first instance of a pig kidney being successfully transplanted into a human recipient, previous attempts with pig heart transplants have not yielded positive outcomes, with recipients succumbing to complications shortly after the surgeries.