None of the scientists interviewed has embarked on a precise prediction on this subject, and all remain cautious. A very important point of the first carried out by the team of the University of Maryland is that the genetic modification of the pig seems to have made it possible to avoid a hyperacute rejection of the heart.
One of the main obstacles to xenografts is the crossing of the species barrier: without special precautions, an organ from another species is rejected in a hyperviolent way within minutes or hours following the intervention. Here, thanks to the genetic modification of the graft, and immunosuppressants in the recipient, this reaction seems to have been avoided.
In addition, the transplanted organ is functional, it fulfills its function as a heart. However, complications can still occur (immunological, cardiac, infectious, etc.). Even if this patient does not survive for long, the procedure will still be considered a success. Remember that, without this xenograft, this 57-year-old American was doomed in the very short term.
