Xenotransplantation with Gene-Edited Pigs

Genetically modified pigs with 10 specific edits have made xenotransplantation a real, if risky, medical option, as demonstrated by the 2022 University of Maryland heart transplant—where the patient survived only two months. eGenesis and Revivicor lead this field with pigs harboring up to 69 modifications to prevent rejection and inactivate retroviruses. The approach offers 30% faster organ availability than the traditional human donor waitlist, addressing the chronic shortage of 100,000+ patients in the U.S. alone. However, virologists warn about unknown porcine virus risks, making it more contentious than #8 Agricultural Gene Editing Without Regulation. Despite setbacks, pig-heart trials remain on track for 2025–2026.