World’s Second Genetically Modified Pig Heart Transplant Patient Dies

An official press release from the University of Maryland School of Medicine announced the passing of Mr. Lawrence Faucette, the patient with terminal heart failure who received the world’s second genetically modified pig heart transplant. Mr. Faucette lived for nearly six weeks following the surgery and ultimately succumbed on October 30 due to acute organ rejection despite the initial early success and significant progress after surgery. The medical and scientist team in charge of the xenotransplantation program will conduct an extensive analysis to identify factors that can help to improve the outcome in future xenotransplantation.