Richard “Rick” Slayman, who became the first person to undergo a genetically modified pig kidney transplant, has passed away nearly two months following the procedure. Slayman, aged 62 and suffering from end-stage kidney disease, received the transplant in March at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston.
Although the hospital stated on Saturday that there was “no indication” his death was linked to the transplant, the surgeon involved in the procedure had hoped the transplant would remain functional for at least two years. The hospital issued a statement expressing deep sadness at Slayman’s sudden passing, hailing him as a symbol of hope for transplant patients globally and thanking him for his willingness to push the boundaries of xenotransplantation, the transplant of organs from one species to another, in order to address the organ shortage crisis.
Slayman’s family, in a statement released by the hospital, expressed gratitude to the medical team for their tireless efforts leading up to the xenotransplant, which afforded them precious additional time with Slayman. Describing him as kind, quick-witted, and devoted to his loved ones, the family highlighted Slayman’s aspiration to provide hope to countless others in need of transplants.
The significance of Slayman’s transplant lies in its contribution to the advancement of xenotransplantation, offering potential solutions to the organ scarcity problem by genetically modifying animal organs to mitigate rejection by the human body.
Slayman’s legacy of hope continues, as he aimed to inspire others facing similar medical challenges. His family emphasized his lasting impact on those who require transplants to survive.
In a related development, a 54-year-old woman from New Jersey recently became the second individual to undergo a genetically modified pig kidney transplant. With over 100,000 Americans awaiting organ transplants, and thousands succumbing to their conditions before receiving one, Slayman’s story underscores the urgent need for innovative solutions in the field of transplantation.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4n1l9g2wn9o
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