Using a hybrid human–pig thymus to help the immune system accept pig organs
Inducing Xenotolerance via Chimeric Thymus
Researchers plan to build a mixed human–pig thymus that can teach the immune system to tolerate genetically modified pig organs for people who need transplants.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11231736 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project aims to create a chimeric thymus that combines human and pig tissue to train immune cells to accept pig donor organs without attacking them. The team will use laboratory work and animal models, building on prior cultured human thymus implant experience, to test whether the approach produces donor-specific tolerance while preserving normal immunity. Success here could make long-lasting pig-to-human organ transplants more feasible and reduce reliance on human donors. The work is translational and could lead to early human applications at specialized transplant centers.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be people who need an organ transplant and might be considered for xenotransplantation with genetically modified pig organs under specialized care.
Not a fit: Patients who are not transplant candidates, have uncontrolled infections, active cancer, or immune conditions that prevent thymus-based tolerance are unlikely to benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could allow long-term acceptance of genetically modified pig organs, increasing the supply of lifesaving transplants.
How similar studies have performed: Prior animal studies and early cultured-thymus implants in humans show partial promise, but durable pig-to-human organ survival remains limited and this approach is still early-stage.
Where this research is happening
Durham, United States
- Duke University — Durham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hale, Laura P. — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Hale, Laura P.
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.