The plan, says the company, is to use the gene-editing method known as CRISPR to introduce extensive DNA modifications into pigs as a way of humanizing their organs so they won’t get rejected if transferred into a person.
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Now the group plans even more extensive modifications to pigs, including using gene editing to snip away pig molecules that the human body attacks. [Company cofounder Luhan Yang] says the company will also add to the pig’s genome genes that modulate the immune response and modify certain factors involved in coagulation.
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The need for organs remains acute. Everyone eventually dies of organ failure. But there are millions whose lives could be extended if only they could get a replacement heart, liver, kidney, or lungs. The problem is even worse in China, says Yang, since organ donation is not widely accepted there.
The GLP aggregated and excerpted this blog/article to reflect the diversity of news, opinion, and analysis. Read full, original post: CRISPR May Speed Pig-to-Human Transplants
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