Rick Slayman, the first patient to receive a transplanted pig kidney, has passed away at the age of 62.
This is coming barely two months when Africa Health Report (AHR) published the groundbreaking operation that took place at Massachusetts General Hospital, where a genetically-edited pig kidney was transplanted into Slayman, who was suffering from end-stage kidney disease.
The hospital had hailed the operation as a milestone in xenotransplantation, offering a potential solution to the global organ shortage.
Slayman’s death, however, was not linked to the transplant, as confirmed by the hospital. “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,”it said.
His family expressed deep sadness at his sudden passing, but also took comfort in knowing that he had inspired many. Stated, “Our family is deeply saddened about the sudden passing of our beloved Rick but take great comfort knowing he inspired so many,” his family said on Sunday.
Slayman’s family paid tribute to the medical team that cared for him.
“Their enormous efforts leading the xenotransplant gave our family seven more weeks with Rick, and our memories made during that time will remain in our minds and hearts.”
The pig kidney used in the transplant had been genetically-edited to remove harmful pig genes and incorporate certain human genes to enhance compatibility with humans. Additionally, porcine endogenous retroviruses in the pig donor had been inactivated to eliminate any risk of infection in humans.
