Richard Slayman, who became the first person to receive genetically modified pig kidney transplant has died at 62. Richard had undergone the transplantation in March this year.
“The Mass General transplant team is deeply saddened at the sudden passing of Mr. Rick Slayman. We have no indication that it was the result of his recent transplant. Mr. Slayman will forever be seen as a beacon of hope to countless transplant patients worldwide and we are deeply grateful for his trust and willingness to advance the field of xenotransplantation. We offer our heartfelt condolences to Mr. Slayman’s family and loved ones as they remember an extraordinary person whose generosity and kindness touched all who knew him," the hospital has said in a statement. The hospital said there was no indication his death was a result of the transplant, BBC reported.
Richard was suffering with end-stage kidney disease. In 2018, he had a human kidney transplant, but that was not a success, it began to fail after five years. He underwent pig kidney transplant on March 16 and post surgery he no longer required dialysis and his new organ was working well.
Xenotransplantation involves transplanting living cells, tissues, or organs from one species to another, typically from animals to humans. Pioneered to address organ shortages, it holds promise for treating life-threatening conditions like organ failure. However, challenges include immune rejection and the risk of transmitting infectious diseases from animals to humans. Advances in genetic engineering, immunosuppression, and organ preservation techniques aim to overcome these hurdles.
"After his transplant, Rick said that one of the reasons he underwent this procedure was to provide hope for the thousands of people who need a transplant to survive. Rick accomplished that goal and his hope and optimism will endure forever. His legacy will be one that inspires patients, researchers, and health care professionals everywhere," the family has said.
