Rick Slayman, the world's first recipient of a genetically-edited pig kidney, has died. According to Massachusetts General Hospital, where the transplant occurred, there was no indication that Mr. Slayman’s passing was related to his recent transplant. 

Mr. Slayman underwent the pioneering surgery for end-stage kidney disease on March 16 at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) as part of an effort to address the critical shortage of human organs available. The 4-hour procedure, conducted under the guidance of Dr. Tatsuo Kawai, Director of the Legoretta Center for Clinical Transplant Tolerance, Dr. Leo Riella, Medical Director of Kidney Transplantation, and Dr. Nahel Elias, Interim Chief of Transplant Surgery, marked a “historic milestone” in the field of xenotransplantation, the hospital released in a statement.

The genetically-modified pig kidney was developed in collaboration with eGenesis, a biotech firm that utilized CRISPR-Cas9 technology to enhance compatibility and reduce risks of rejection and infection.

Mass General Brigham has been at the forefront of organ transplant innovation since performing the world's first successful human organ transplant in 1954. This latest advancement not only underscores the enduring legacy in medical innovation but also highlights the ongoing commitment to solving critical health issues, noted Dr. Anne Klibanski, President and CEO of Mass General Brigham.

The successful transplant provided Mr. Slayman with an extended period of improved quality of life.

“After his transplant, Rick said that one of the reasons he underwent this procedure was to provide hope for the thousands of people who need a transplant to survive. Rick accomplished that goal, and his hope and optimism will endure forever. His legacy will inspire patients, researchers, and health care professionals everywhere,” noted his family in a statement.