These are the Cleanest Pigs in the World

Medical scientists have for long been exploring pigs as a source to harvest organs. While not wholly successful, evolving medical technology is bringing us closer to successfully using pig organs like the liver to transplant into humans with organ failure.  One such groundbreaking project underway in Christiansburg, Virginia, involves genetically modified pigs raised in a highly controlled, pathogen-free environment. These pigs are explicitly engineered to grow organs compatible with human transplantation. The pigs are reared in the most hygienic conditions, making them the world’s cleanest pigs.

These Are No Ordinary Pigs

An initiative by Revivicor Inc. has the potential to revolutionize organ transplants to save numerous lives. The pig breeding project focuses on pigs that aren’t your everyday swine. These are special pigs whose organs are genetically engineered to be compatible with humans. A visit to the barn sees several wide-eyed piglets who like checking out visitors, but don’t expect to see them rolling in mud.

Advanced Genetic Modification Techniques

At Revivicor Inc., scientists use sophisticated gene-editing techniques to modify pigs so their organs are less likely to be rejected by the human immune system. This includes removing specific genes that trigger immune responses and integrating human genes to improve compatibility. The primary technique involves editing the pig’s DNA to eliminate alpha-gal, a sugar molecule responsible for hyper-acute rejection in humans. This precise genetic editing fosters organs that the human body is less likely to reject. The company is now targeting ten gene edits that will eliminate the risk of clotting and rejection and reduce organ size.

From Lab to Transplant

The process begins in the lab, where pig skin cells are genetically modified. Hundreds of pig’s eggs are sourced from a farm. They are then edited in a dark environment to protect them from light sensitivity. During the process, the undesirable DNA is sucked out, taking care not to rupture the egg. New DNA is then fused into the egg using mild electric shocks, which activate embryo growth. The genetically modified eggs are then implanted into sows at the source farm. The cloning process is like how Dolly the sheep was created.

The Need for Xenotransplantation

The demand for organ transplants significantly surpasses the supply, with thousands in the U.S. dying yearly while waiting. Genetically modified pigs offer a potential solution by providing a ready-made organ supply. Though there have been hurdles, such as instances of organ rejection and the complexity of matching pig organs to human immune systems, the trials have shown considerable promise. The continued refinement of these procedures aims to make xenotransplantation a reliable treatment option.

Farm and Facility Protocols

The farm where these pigs are bred operates under strict biosecurity measures to prevent any infections that could transfer to transplant recipients. Employees undergo rigorous cleaning protocols, including timed showers and wearing company-provided clothes to minimize contamination risks. Visitors and caretakers are required to wear protective clothing and vehicles are washed down thoroughly before entry. Even air entering the 77,000-square-foot facility is filtered through multiple filters with giant vats backing up the water supply.

Early Results

The initial results from transplanting these pig organs into humans under “compassionate use” have been promising, albeit with challenges such as organ rejection and infection risks. The ongoing research aims to refine these methods for safer and more effective transplants. The aim is to produce organs compatible with an individual’s immune system, paying attention to size as well.

Ethical Considerations and Future Prospects

This field is laden with ethical questions, such as the implications of using animal parts in humans. However, the process is regulated strictly, with each step designed to adhere to ethical norms and ensure animal welfare.

According to David Ayares of Revivicor Inc., who has spent decades studying pig cloning, the project is promising. To date, there have been no significant obstacles, such as immediate rejection, which encourages future research. Of course, many more years of study are required to prove if xenotransplantation will work, but success will mean an exciting era in the realm of organ transplantation, saving millions of lives. The FDA is currently evaluating the technology.