In a groundbreaking yet tragic development, the second recipient of a pig heart transplant has passed away six weeks after the experimental surgery. The University of Maryland School of Medicine reported the death of Lawrence Faucette, a 58-year-old patient who received the genetically modified pig heart on September 20th. Initially, the pig heart appeared healthy, but recent rejection signs led to Faucette’s demise.

Dr. Bartley Griffith, who led the surgical team, shared that Faucette wished to contribute to medical knowledge. This was the second attempt by the Maryland team; the first, conducted last year, raised questions after the recipient’s pig heart failed due to a pig virus.

Efforts to achieve animal-to-human organ transplants, known as xenotransplants, face challenges due to the body’s immune system rejecting foreign tissue. However, scientists persist in using genetically modified pigs for organ creation.

Faucette, a Navy veteran and father of two, was ineligible for a traditional heart transplant due to underlying health issues. In mid-October, he showed progress, with hope for more time with his family.

Xenotransplants hold promise to address organ shortage issues, but further research is essential to gain regulatory approval.