Improving organ transplantation using genetically engineered pig organs
Official title: Overcoming humoral rejection after xenotransplantation in sensitized nonhuman primate recipients
Funded at Duke University · NIH-11009555 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at ways to help people who have had organ transplants before or have developed antibodies against donor organs, by improving the chances of success for organ transplants from specially engineered pigs.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | February 6, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $762,292 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI175411-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11009555 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients who are highly sensitized and have developed antibodies against donor organs, making them less likely to succeed with traditional organ transplants.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not developed sensitization or those who do not require organ transplantation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how to enhance the success of organ transplants from genetically engineered pigs to primates, particularly focusing on patients who have developed antibodies against donor organs. The study aims to understand and mitigate the immune response that leads to rejection of these pig organs in sensitized recipients. By exploring new strategies for desensitization and immunosuppression, the research seeks to improve the chances of long-term survival of transplanted organs. Patients who have had previous transplants or have developed antibodies against donor tissues may particularly benefit from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly increase the availability of transplantable organs for patients with severe organ shortages.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in xenotransplantation, particularly with genetically engineered pig organs, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kwun, Jean — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Kwun, Jean
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.