Using genetically engineered pig hearts to help infants with heart disease
Official title: The genetically engineered pig heart as a bridge to allotransplantation in infants
Funded at University of Southern California · NIH-10815486 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring whether specially modified pig hearts can be safely used for infants with serious heart conditions who need a transplant, with the hope of finding a new way to help these little ones live healthier lives.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $501,283 |
| NIH project number | 7R33HL163718-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10815486 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are infants with complex cardiac diseases who are on the transplant waitlist or require cardiac support.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have complex cardiac diseases or are not infants may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of genetically engineered pig hearts as a potential solution for infants suffering from complex cardiac diseases who are on the transplant waitlist. The study aims to determine if hearts from specially modified pigs, known as triple-knockout pigs, can be safely transplanted into infants without triggering harmful immune responses. By analyzing the immune reactions to these pig hearts, the researchers hope to develop a new treatment option that could significantly improve survival rates for these vulnerable patients. The approach includes both laboratory studies and potential clinical trials to assess the feasibility and safety of this innovative transplantation method.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a life-saving alternative for infants awaiting heart transplants, potentially improving their survival rates and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of genetically engineered organs is a novel approach, preliminary data suggests that similar strategies have shown promise in reducing immune responses in animal models.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cleveland, David C — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Cleveland, David C
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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.