Woman makes History with Longest-Lasting Pig Organ Transplant
Table of Contents
- 1. Woman makes History with Longest-Lasting Pig Organ Transplant
- 2. In the advancements of xenotransplantation, what are the potential long-term health implications for recipients of pig organs?
- 3. Towana Looney on Breaking Barriers with a Pig Kidney Transplant
- 4. An interview with a Milestone Patient
- 5. What Are Your Thoughts?
Towana Looney, a 53-year-old woman from Alabama, has achieved a groundbreaking milestone. She has surpassed the previous record for the longest survival after a pig organ transplant, marking a significant leap forward in the field of xenotransplantation. Looney received a genetically modified pig kidney on November 25th, 2023, and as of January 26th, 2025, she is thriving, her new kidney functioning normally.
“I’m superwoman,” Looney exclaimed to the Associated Press,joyfully recounting her ability to outpace family members on long walks around New York City during her recovery. “It’s a new take on life.”
This remarkable recovery offers a much-needed ray of hope in the pursuit of making animal-to-human transplants a feasible reality. Prior to Looney’s case, four other Americans had received experimental pig organ transplants—two hearts and two kidneys—but none had survived beyond two months.
Dr. Robert Montgomery of NYU Langone Health, who led Looney’s transplant, emphasizes the remarkable normalcy of her situation. “If you saw her on the street, you would have no idea that she’s the onyl person in the world walking around with a pig organ inside them that’s functioning,” he stated.
Dr. Montgomery has expressed cautious optimism about Looney’s future. “We’re quite optimistic that this is going to continue to work and work well for, you know, a significant period of time,” he shared.
Looney’s case is a testament to the dedication of scientists working to genetically modify pig organs to be more compatible with the human body. This innovative approach aims to address the critical shortage of transplantable human organs, with over 100,000 people in the US waiting for a transplant—most needing a kidney—and thousands losing their lives each year while waiting.
Though currently categorized as “compassionate use” cases, these experimental transplants are paving the way for formal xenotransplantation studies anticipated to begin later this year. United Therapeutics, the company which supplied Looney’s kidney, has already submitted a request to the Food and Drug Governance for permission to initiate a trial.
Dr. Montgomery’s team, closely monitoring Looney’s recovery through regular blood tests and other assessments, is celebrating the success of the procedure. “We successfully treated ms. Looney, and there has been no sign of rejection sence,” Dr. Montgomery confirmed. However, he acknowledges the unprecedented nature of this achievement. “The truth is we don’t really know what the next hurdles are because this is the first time we’ve gotten this far,” he concluded. “We’ll have to continue to really keep a close eye on her.”
In the advancements of xenotransplantation, what are the potential long-term health implications for recipients of pig organs?
Towana Looney on Breaking Barriers with a Pig Kidney Transplant
Cory Lawson, 段階Medical Reporter at Archyde, recently sat down with Towana Looney, the first person in the world to successfully survive over two years with a pig organ transplant. Her case has sent shockwaves through the medical community, offering a much-needed ray of hope for the thousands waiting for life-saving organ transplants.
An interview with a Milestone Patient
Cory Lawson: Ms. Looney, your journey is truly inspirational. Can you tell us about your decision to participate in this experimental transplant?
Towana Looney: It was a arduous decision, of course. I was facing end-stage renal disease, and my chances without a transplant were slim. But the doctors explained the risks and benefits of this new technology, and honestly, I felt like I had nothing to lose. I’m a fighter, and I believe in miracles.
Cory Lawson: What has it been like living with this new kidney?
Towana Looney: It’s unbelievable. I feel like a new person. I can walk, I can play with my grandchildren, I’m not constantly tired. It’s amazing to just feel healthy again.
Cory Lawson: Dr.Robert Montgomery and his team have been hailed as pioneers in this field. What was your experience like with them?
Towana Looney: Oh, they’re the best. So caring, compassionate, and incredibly smart. They were honest with me about the challenges, but also optimistic about the possibilities. It’s clear they’re dedicated to making a difference in people’s lives.
Cory Lawson: Your story has given hope to so many people waiting for an organ transplant. What message do you want to send to them?
Towana Looney: Don’t give up hope. Miracles do happen. Keep fighting for your life, and never stop believing that something better is possible.
What Are Your Thoughts?
Towana Looney’s story is a testament to the progress being made in the field of xenotransplantation. What are your thoughts on this groundbreaking development? Do you think pig-to-human organ transplants will be a common solution for organ shortages in the future? Share your comments below!
