Question 417 of 433
Will we be able to replace organs?
The short answer
Possibly, with organs from gene-edited pigs. The first formal clinical trials of pig kidneys are under way.
More than 100,000 Americans are waiting for an organ, and many die waiting. Scientists have edited pig genes to remove the signals that trigger rejection. Several patients with kidney failure have received these kidneys under special permission; the longest have lived more than eight or nine months free of dialysis. The first FDA-cleared trial began transplants in late 2025.
Lab-grown human organs remain distant. Pig organs as a bridge or a substitute may be a matter of years.
“This book is for education. It is not medical advice, and reading it does not make you my patient or create a doctor-patient relationship.” From the book’s medical disclaimer. Full disclaimer
EARLY HUMAN SAFETY / FEASIBILITY — Selected transplant recipients: gene-edited pig organs; long-term benefit and risks unresolved.Evidence grade (draft mapping)BLimited or small human studiesPart 28, Q417 · Part sources
From Longevity Unmasked by Afshine Ash Emrani, MD, FACC. Medical disclaimer. This book is for education. It is not medical advice, and reading it does not make you my patient or create a doctor-patient relationship. Nothing here is meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Medicine is personal: a test, drug, supplement, or exercise plan that helps one person can harm another. Do not start, stop, or change any medication or treatment because of something you read in these pages. Talk with a licensed clinician who knows your history first. If you think you are having a medical emergency, call 911. The author disclaims responsibility for any loss or harm arising from use of the information in this book.