World’s First Genetically Modified Pig Kidney Recipient Passes Away

Richard Slayman, the recipient of the world’s first genetically modified pig kidney transplant has passed away, as announced by his family.

The historic surgery took place in March this year at Massachusetts General Hospital, where Mr. Slayman, 62, underwent the successful procedure and was discharged two weeks later in April. The cause of his sudden demise remains unknown, confirmed by the hospital not related to the transplant.

A resident of Weymouth, Massachusetts, Slayman battled Type 2 diabetes and hypertension for years before the groundbreaking surgery. Prior to the pig kidney transplant, he managed his conditions and received a human kidney transplant in 2018 from the same hospital team. Unfortunately, the human kidney lasted only five years before showing signs of rejection, leading to Slayman’s return to dialysis in May 2023.

The genetically modified pig kidney, provided by eGenesis, underwent CRISPR-Cas9 technology to enhance compatibility with Slayman’s body.

Despite his passing, Slayman’s family expressed gratitude to the medical team and highlighted his role in offering hope to transplant patients worldwide.