Stopping antibody rejection of pig kidney transplants for sensitized patients
Overcoming humoral rejection after xenotransplantation in sensitized nonhuman primate recipients
New approaches aim to stop antibody attacks on pig kidney transplants for patients who already have anti-donor antibodies.
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 ID | NIH-11284100 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project uses genetically engineered pig kidneys and nonhuman primate models to test ways to prevent antibody-mediated rejection in recipients who already have anti-donor antibodies. Researchers will try desensitization methods and different immunosuppression combinations to reduce harmful antibody responses after transplant. The work aims to identify treatments that keep pig kidneys working longer in sensitized recipients and to guide future clinical options for people who have difficulty getting human donor organs.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Best suited for patients who are highly allosensitized (have pre-existing anti-donor or anti-HLA antibodies) and need a kidney transplant but face low chances of receiving a human donor organ.
Not a fit: May not benefit patients without sensitization, those needing organs other than kidneys, or those with medical conditions that prevent transplantation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could enable pig kidneys to survive longer in highly sensitized transplant candidates, offering a new option when human organs are unlikely.
How similar studies have performed: Prior pig-to-primate transplants using gene-edited pigs and immune-blocking drugs have extended graft survival, but preventing antibody-driven rejection in sensitized recipients remains largely unproven.
Where this research is happening
Durham, United States
- Duke University — Durham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kwun, Jean — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Kwun, Jean
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 below.