Kidney
New CNN Article Outlines Longest Pig Kidney Success in Living Human Recipient
April 11, 2025
in Kidney
CNN: Transplanted pig kidney removed after functioning in living patient for more than four months
“In early April, she had a reduction in renal function due to acute rejection. What triggered the rejection episode after a long period of stability is being actively investigated, but it followed a lowering of her immunosuppression regimen to treat an infection unrelated to the pig kidney,” Dr. Robert Montgomery, director of the NYU Langone Transplant Institute and chair of NYU Langone Health’s surgery department, said in a statement.
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This certainly is encouraging news overall for this breakthrough procedure! What do you all think?
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1 - 25 of 25 Replies
Transplant Patient
I am both encouraged for the future and saddened for Towana - she is a hero paving the way for others. She says this was worth it and the four months she got, were miraculous!
Thank you Towana and Dr Montgomery for your bravery and let’s hope for even longer and better results in the future!
Three companies are about to start clinical trials(and compassionate use cases will still be going on) so this is but the beginning!
This is unfortunate news but the science is coming along with this and I am curious to know if you had the opportunity to receive a kidney transplant from a xenotransplant would you? Are you willing to take the risk of rejection if it meant 1 month, 4 months 6 months free from dialysis? In my opinion I would take whatever time I can get away from dialysis. It would give me the freedom to make memories with my family and travel easily without the confines of dialysis. I appreciate Towana and the team at NYU with taking this what was once science-fiction and making a reality for those who are waiting for a new kidney through a unique way.
This is encouraging for the future of transplantation. I am deeply saddened for Towana, but inspired by her willingness to be a part of leading the way to new medical advancements. I hope that we can continue to (ethically) study this; and make great advancements. Maybe, just maybe, one day we can get to transplantation without immunosuppression!
Transplant Patient
I try to avoid xenotransplant news. I personally don’t agree with it, and find it unethical
May I ask for more clarity on your view of how its unethical? (which you have the right to those views, I am just curious as I educate myself) Is is due to the risk of zoonotic infections, endogenous viruses, the publicity of it and the patient's confidentiality? Genetically engineering animals and raising them for use in the human body? Or, something else?
Transplant Patient
all of the above. I feel like it has ties to the history of colonialism across the globe, and with a zoomed out perspective also taking in the larger cultural narratives I'm not convinced it's the way to go. I also just think scientific advancements in general have crossed lines that are probably better left uncrossed. It's a loaded topic, one I definitely don't think I could do justice in a paragraph on a forum, and I know a lot of people probably disagree with me. I would love to see advancements in other areas.
With so much mainstream media emphasis on xeno recently, it's been a reminder to me how much innovation is LACKING in preventative care. Outside of maybe the surge in genetic testing availability (in the U.S. at least) and the rise of Farxiga/Jardiance usage, so many aspects of renal care diagnosis and pre-ESRD treatment are stagnant. While I appreciate science considering new ways to approach transplant, there should be an equally important push to prevent ESRD as well, especially in pediatric and underserved populations.
1000 percent agree. early detection would be helpful. finding ways to educate those who just dont know what they dont know. gotta start somewhere, grassroots conversations
Transplant Patient
I am reflecting on this conversation. I am saddened by the lack of empathy and understanding for those who have no other options. When you face a (shortened) and ”reduced” life on dialysis with no real option to receive an allo-transplant, the perception of ”choice” looks very different. This has nothing to do with colonialism or abuse. This is a potential option for a human being to choose life through science. It is also very important to understand that all scientific progress happens through experiments and human beings who think beyond themselves. They often participate in clinical trials to help future patients, and scientists give up everything to work hard and venture into new territories. The path is very very hard, but each step is governed carefully by regulations and experienced individuals who have strong backgrounds including in medical ethics.
Other
I’m genuinely confused by the comparison between breeding pigs for medical use and colonialism. Doesn’t that minimize the very real and painful experiences of those who’ve suffered from actual colonial oppression? It feels like a stretch that could come across as dismissive—or even disrespectful—to those impacted by that history.
I respect that xenotransplantation is a sensitive and complex issue, but I’m struggling to understand the ethical distinction being made. We accept the unnecessary breeding and slaughtering animals for food and comfort—yet using them to save lives is considered unethical or colonialist?
I also find it troubling to broadly dismiss science. We all benefit from medical advances—vaccines, treatments, technologies that extend life. To say we’ve “crossed too many lines” without recognizing how much suffering science has alleviated seems unfair.
Yes, bioethics and cultural perspectives are essential, and we should keep questioning. But when science offers real hope to people in pain, dismissing it outright feels wrong. I’m glad we’re having this conversation—it’s important. That said, it’s worth taking a pause to reflect more deeply before drawing conclusions on such a complex issue.
@onlylivingboyinny Thank you for sharing this. Towanna truly is a hero—her willingness to help others is inspiring, and her journey is remarkable. The progress in xenotransplantation is incredible. The immune system is so complex, and finding ways to help it accept a transplant is no small feat. I often think about how far we've come—from the first successful kidney transplant in 1954 to now. So many of us are here today, able to make memories with our families and support one another, because of these medical advances. I do wish we saw even more progress in transplantation, like we do in other areas of medicine.
@Berriosa1234 , I really appreciate the thoughtful questions you raised. With my complicated antibody history, I’ve wondered if xenotransplantation might be my only option one day. When I think about life tied to a machine, and the fact that over 5,500 people in the U.S. die each year waiting for a kidney—many of them also facing access issues—it’s clear why this research gives so many people a reason to keep going.
I understand the concerns, and it’s so important to approach these conversations with care. At the same time, for many of us in the transplant community, xenotransplantation represents hope—especially when options are limited. It’s not about control or harm but finding ways to save lives when time runs out. The decision to consider something like this is incredibly personal and often comes after years of waiting, setbacks, and uncertainty. These advancements aren’t perfect, but they offer a possibility for a future that some people might not otherwise have.
Transplant Patient
See what appeared today! A leader in transplant is placed on the Time 100 list! Good for our field and a promise of more…
paired exchange, compassionate use and now xeno - Dr Montgomery has truly been a pioneer among surgeons and he is himself a heart transplant recipient!
https://time.com/collections/100-most-influential-people-2025/7273743/robert-montgomery/
@onlylivingboyinny @AliEm14 I fully and wholeheartedly agree with the key points you both have brought up. Conversations like this are a core part of my work as a patient advocate for kidney patients.
I think it's important for all patients and professionals in this realm/industry to acknowledge the depth and duality of this disease, the treatment options, and the human experience of it all. It is imperative that we create a space where we can express concerns and not immediately sum up someones opinions as a lack of empathy. This is new innovation and science- there is no manual on how to process the information that is being discovered. For those who feel compelled to be part of science and dedicate their bodies to new innovations and research studies, by all means- PLEASE do what you feel is best for yourself. It should never matter what others think when it comes down to deciding what is best for yourself and what sacrifices you are willing to make. That being said, it should also be totally okay for patients and professionals to express concerns about said research and innovations.
There are many people, across many cultures, that DO NOT accept mass animal testing or genetically modified ANYTHING. If you are someone who believes in energy work- how every cell of our being carries our emotional and energetic landscape- how trauma is embedded in your dna- you might deeply understand the concerns others have raised in regards to ethics with xenotransplantation. I have gone in person to listen to the scientists speak about xenotransplantation, Ive seen pictures of the labs, etc. It breaks my heart to know that Pigs, which are incredibly smart and sentient beings, are raised in a lab that never sees the light of day only to be cut open and have parts of them taken. What happens to the rest of the pig? Same goes for any animal testing for beauty products, fur fashion, mass factory farming and slaughterhouses, etc.
I understand how xenotransplantation can provide hope. As does the concept of the artificial kidney. I also believe that hope stems from within; what you value as meaningful and what you believe to be true. I love that innovations are being made but I also know theres a lot of work to be done. Because at the end of the day, we need better drugs, preventative measures, and a better medical / healthcare system. Its okay to question things. Especially what gets funded by large corporations and what doesn't.
Much love. Always do what you feel is best for yourself. Always allow space for complexity, compassion, and emotion.
Transplant Patient
@fern22 I appreciate your comment although my life’s work has been focused on discovery and improvements for people while also respecting rules and ethics above all. To me, it is much worse to slaughter pigs for the pleasure of eating bacon, vs allowing them to be part of saving lives of humans who have had the very unfortunate draw in life to suffer from esrd. The pigs used for xeno transplants are in fact treated with the utmost respect and under the most incredible conditions, vs those poor pigs raised in small spaces to only be slaughtered for people to enjoy their breakfast bacon. I too appreciate debate and I have to believe that we all want was is the best for our fellow humans, and in particular for our fellow chronic illness patients. Thank you for raising your voice and sharing.
I agree completely! I think prevention is key and although I find xenotransplantation interesting, I do think there is better ways of finding organs. I hope science can move towards organ generation from stem cells, especially our own.
Transplant Patient
I would love stem cells to be a reality soon!
Currently the most advanced technologies come from embryonic stem cells that open a totally different can of worms!
Generating new kidneys from stem cells is complex due the the multicellular nature of the kidney w its different functions and structures. But one day maybe!! Prevention is key, but for those in dialysis chairs three times weekly, 4 hrs at a time, the time is now.
Oh it certainly is a big can of worms and argubly a much larger moral and ethical concern than xenotransplants.
The complexity makes it seem impossible but I continue to hold out hope that someone will come across some finding that can get the gears turning. Or even more precise and targeted treatment technology that can make a difference for those in early stages of CKD. Unfortunately, these sort of genetically engineered proteins are only a hopeful idea even in cancer treatments.
Transplant Patient
Wow, wow, wow!! I applaud all those of you who have engaged on this forum so far, about this extremely relevant and important topic in the realm of #OrganDonation and #Transplantation in the present day. I encourage more of you to share and let your voices be heard, without judgments. It is a "loaded" and provocative discussion topic, indeed.
IMHO, this is all relative, knowing that we are all unique individuals and we're all entitled to our own feelings and even opinions, based on our personal beliefs and situations.
That said, I strongly believe that forums/platforms like TransplantLyfe exist to HELP, EDUCATE, RAISE AWARENESS, ADVOCATE, and provide OVERALL SUPPORT to ALL who are in various phases of their respective transplant journeys (candidates/ patients/ recipients/ living donors/ donor families/ caregivers/ friends/ caregivers/ medical community et. al.
Futher, if innovations like Artificial Intelligence (Ai) are considered 'state-of-the-art' and 'life-changing' advancements, what about an tremendous progress in medicine/science by way of Xenotransplantation (Xeno) ?
What is at the core of pursuing Xeno? I believe that it's on the critical path to SAVING MILLIONS OF LIVES!
As a society, we should all try to do everything possible (contribute/work) to improve /enhance/save ALL lives (yes, non-human living beings too!).
Keeping EQ out of it, we know that if (somehow) the SUPPLY (recovered organs from deceased donors + donations from living donors) increases, and the DEMAND (of patients who need life-saving organs) is met - there wouldn't be a National (wait) list!!
If the SUPPLY (availability) doesn't increase and the DEMAND continues to grow (as is projected to), then way more than 17 people on that waiting list will perish, EACH DAY.
The demand for organs far outweighs the supply, leading to a critical shortage. The current "wait list" doesn't even reflect an accurate picture of the true demand. Many need an organ desperately, but aren't eligible to receive or afford it, for various reasons. Then, there are scary issues like CKD and other diseases which cause organ damage/failure globally (not just in the 🇺🇸 ).
When we speak in terms of global impact, the statistics around Organ Donation , Transplantation and lives lost vs. Lives saved are staggering!!
An innovation like Xeno, if successful, will be a human life-saver and game-changer beyond imagination, for all fellow humans in dire need of life-saving organs.
I'm very hopeful for the future of Xeno. I pray that the very talented community of experts in the field will make it a reality in our lifetime, with access to the appropriate resources. I'm also very grateful for all the brave, amazing, and selfless patient volunteers who have elected to further the cause, on behalf of mankind. 🙏
The facts: ⬇️
1.
#OrganDonation + #Transplantation = #Miracles 💯
2.
🌟 ALL 🌟 ORGAN, EYE & TISSUE DONORS SAVE LIVES !!
3.
By-products from pigs have been used in medicine (insulin and others) for decades, not to mention, actual pig parts/tissues such as replacement valves etc. too.
4.
Many of us simply wouldn't be here today without the #amazing & #awesome
♻️ #GiftofLife ✅️
💙#DonateLifeMonth💚
5. Being on Dialysis is no way to live, and it was intended to be a stop-gap /bridge until receiving the ultimate treatment for Organ failure - a transplant.
Thank you, everyone! Please stay healthy and blessed and continue sharing your thoughts on this topic!
Best, Sam.
Ps. If I unintentionally ended up offending anyone's personal beliefs /feelings /opinions - please feel to write to me in a private message.
I often think about when I was first training for peritoneal dialysis (2012) and saw online articles about wearable PD "belts" that were in development and here we are 13 years later -- where are they? You are absolutely correct that for those on dialysis, the time is NOW and innovation must be safely expedited.
That is an interesting point! The wearable belt, as in that you can do the PD exchange with a device on the belt or a belt for holding the catheter?
I know The Kindey Project is looking into an inplantable artificial kidney. I'm including the link to the page below.
https://pharm.ucsf.edu/kidney
@Dom I was referring to the externally wearable device would allow you to dialyze on the move. It seemed quite heavy, but had the PD solution bags, drain bag etc. all as little compartments on the belt. Imagine Batman's tool belt haha
Sam - thank you for putting this all out there - long thorough and sensitive. This forum is for everyone to share their personal thoughts and journeys, and I applaud everyone who has dared to do so. I am ever so grateful for scientists / physicians and patients who help push this field (and all medicine) forward and create opportunities for themselves (hopefully) and for others in the future. It is not for everyone - but huge CHEERS and GRATITUDE to Dr Montgomery / other pioneers in transplantation. And to Towana!
It was very hard to imagine until you said that! Haha!
Original prototypes were like 20 pounds, so I guess there was a lot of work to be done! haha
@Dom Thank you for sharing the kidney project. I've been watching that closely. I am very fascinated with anything that doesn't require immunosuppression medications. I've had a love/hate relationship with medications over the last 20 years. Haha. So something like this really appeals to me.