Tim Andrews, the First Person to Perform a Pig Kidney Transplant, Served as a Bridge Until the Human Kidney was Found

A kidney from the Yucatan miniature pig "Wilma" was transplanted to Tim Andrews (66), who had end-stage renal failure related to type 2 diabetes in the USA, on January 25, 2025. The organ started working immediately, keeping Andrews from needing dialysis for about nine months.

GENETICLY MODIFIED

Scientists made 69 changes to Wilma's genome to prevent her immune system from rejecting the pig organ. While some pig cell characteristics were eliminated, fragments of human DNA were added to reduce the immune response. Although Andrews' body showed signs of rejection of the pig kidney in the early stages of the transplant, this situation was controlled with medication. After 6 months, damage and inflammation developed in the vessels of the kidney, and the organ lost its function over time and was removed after 271 days.

IT SERVED AS A 'BRIDGE'

Andrews underwent dialysis for 82 days after the organ was removed. A kidney transplant was performed from a donor who died in January. While it was reported that the new kidney was still working well, the researchers stated that the fact that the pig kidney served as a "bridge" until the human kidney was found made the case important. Andrews became the first patient to successfully receive a human kidney transplant after a pig kidney transplant. Dr. from Mass General Brigham Transplant Center. Leonardo Riella stated that organ shortage constitutes a serious crisis and said that tissue and organ transplantation from different species may be an important option in the future, especially for patients who do not have a living donor.

Andrews was recorded as the person who has worked with pig kidneys for the longest time.