CardioXeno Clinical Translation of Cardiac Xenotransplantation

In Germany, around 9,500 people are waiting for an organ transplant, but there are fewer than 1,000 donors annually. This shortage could potentially be addressed by transplanting genetically modified pig organs (xenotransplantation). Our research has identified five genetic modifications necessary to make pig hearts compatible with humans. These include removing specific molecules that trigger rejection and introducing human proteins to regulate the immune response and blood clotting. To achieve the appropriate size, we use specially bred pigs with hearts similar in size to human hearts. Before clinical application, these hearts are being tested in preclinical studies with baboons. Our planned clinical pilot study is currently under review by the Paul Ehrlich Institute.