Organ Transplantation

From immunosuppression to active tolerance: the evolving paradigm of regulatory T cell therapy in organ transplantation

Mayo Clinic study finds remote monitoring may detect early complications, reduce burden for lung transplant patients

A study published in JHLT Open found that remote patient monitoring can detect early health changes and support care decisions for lung transplant recipients. The system generated nearly 470 alerts, with most prompting changes in care, such as clinic visits or medication adjustments.

Surgeons debate promise and limits of robotics in lung transplantation at ISHLT meeting

At the ISHLT meeting, experts discussed the use of robotic technology in lung transplantation, highlighting potential benefits such as improved recovery and expanded access to transplantation for frail patients. However, Dr. Hermann Reichenspurner presented counterpoints, emphasizing that current evidence does not demonstrate superior ...

More children are surviving long enough for heart transplants—but not enough hearts exist

Advances in pediatric heart care have increased survival rates, but a shortage of donor hearts means many children still die waiting. Experts urge a shift from 'perfect' donor hearts to carefully selected organs and technological innovations to expand the donor pool.

Global experts examine how countries decide who gets a heart transplant

Experts at ISHLT's annual meeting explored how countries allocate heart transplants, with a focus on balancing competing priorities like saving the sickest patients and ensuring fairness. The discussion highlighted key differences in global allocation schemes, including France's data-driven model, which aims to prioritize patients base...

Should there be an upper age limit for lung transplants?

Experts weigh the pros and cons of an upper age limit for lung transplants, citing concerns over organ shortage and quality of life. Some argue that setting a hard age limit ignores biological variability and comorbidities, while others suggest increasing donor supply and utilization could solve the issue.

AI-driven decision support aims to utilize more donor hearts for transplant

Recent AI tools offer surgeons assistance in complex decision-making by analyzing donor hearts and providing a data-driven approach. This could lead to increased efficiency in the donor process, reducing the likelihood of hearts going unused due to time constraints.

Fewer surgeries, more complex cases in the future for pediatric lung transplantation

The number of pediatric lung transplants is expected to decline as highly effective therapies for cystic fibrosis reduce the need for transplantation. Complex cases with multi-system disease and severe cardiopulmonary compromise are on the rise, requiring highly specialized teams and close collaboration.

Canadian nephrologist shares common-sense, patient-centered solutions to transplant inequities

A Canadian nephrologist shared common-sense, patient-centered solutions to address inequities in organ transplantation. His team co-developed practical approaches, including culturally safe spaces, navigation support, and storytelling through videos featuring Indigenous patients.

Reimagining heart transplant allocation worldwide

A new global allocation system is being proposed to address inequities in organ allocation for heart transplants. The proposal aims to reduce disparities and ensure no viable donor heart goes unused globally.

First-in-human trial primes immune system to accept donor livers

A first-in-human trial shows that an infusion of immune cells derived from a donor's blood can prime the recipient's immune system to accept a donor liver, potentially reducing lifelong immunosuppression. Eight out of 13 participants achieved complete withdrawal of immunosuppression and remained off for more than three years.

Daytime liver transplants can safely performed using prolonged hypothermic machine perfusion of donor livers

A recent study from the Universitair Medisch Centrum Groningen found that daytime liver transplants can be safely performed using prolonged hypothermic machine perfusion, with comparable post-transplant outcomes to traditional methods. This technique has increased flexibility for surgeons and improved patient care.

Printing living tissue at human-level cell density

Researchers create living tissue at near-physiological cell density using a new bioprinting strategy called embedded 3D printing in a cell-dense suspension (EPICS). The method enables the precise fabrication of perfusable channels and dense cellular environments, mimicking real organs.

Surprising culprit leads to chronic rejection of transplanted lungs, hearts

Researchers at WashU Medicine have found that disrupted lymphatic vessels may trigger chronic organ rejection in transplanted lungs and hearts. The study suggests that preventing hyaluronan buildup or restoring lymphatic drainage could prevent fibrosis and long-term damage.

A new vascularized tissueoid-on-a-chip model for liver regeneration and transplant rejection

Researchers developed a vascularized liver tissueoid-on-a-chip that recapitulates key structural, functional, and immunological features of human liver tissue. The platform enabled the study of liver regeneration and immune-mediated allograft rejection in a physiologically relevant human system.

Texas Children’s sets national benchmark in pediatric organ transplants

The hospital achieved a 22-percent increase over its previous peak year, performing more pediatric liver and kidney transplants than any other in the nation. The team is also recognized as a leader in pediatric lung and heart transplantation, with exceptional post-transplant survival rates.

New therapy could make life better for kidney transplant patients

A new study offers hope that kidney transplant patients may one day have a more effective treatment regimen. The Phase 2 pilot study showed improved kidney functioning in all patients who completed the study, with no patients experiencing rejection due to antibodies produced by the immune system.

ARPA-H project awarded at UC San Diego aims to end liver transplant shortage with 3D bioprinting

A team at UC San Diego is developing functional, patient-specific livers using 3D bioprinting and stem cell technology. The goal is to create 'made-to-order' livers grown from a patient's own cells, offering a safe alternative to transplantation that eliminates the need for donor organs.

Wyss Institute-led collaboration awarded by ARPA-H PRINT program to engineer off-the-shelf, universal, transplant-ready graft for liver failure

A multidisciplinary team of world-leading experts is developing an off-the-shelf engineered product that could address liver failure in millions of patients. The ImPLANT project aims to create synthetic biology-based gene circuits in human induced pluripotent stem cells to drive cell differentiation into all required liver cell types.

New study shows how the spleen helps the immune system accept a transplant

Researchers identified the spleen as a key control center for transplant tolerance, triggering donor-specific regulatory T cells to calm the immune response. This targeted approach induces controlled, donor-specific state in T cells, preserving body's ability to fight infections while supporting long-term graft acceptance.

Children’s Hospital Colorado performs region’s first pediatric heart and liver dual organ transplant

Gracie Greenlaw, an 11-year-old patient with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, undergoes the world's first pediatric heart and liver dual organ transplant at Children's Hospital Colorado. The groundbreaking procedure, performed by Dr. Megan Adams' team, aims to improve her quality of life by addressing long-term complications from her h...

Mayo Clinic researchers develop AI-ECG model to diagnose liver disease earlier

Mayo Clinic researchers developed an AI-ECG model that accurately diagnoses advanced chronic liver disease, allowing for early intervention and potential lifesaving treatment. The study found the model detected twice as many cases as standard methods, highlighting the promise of AI in preventive care.

The transformation of adult heart transplantation in the United States and Western Europe

Despite challenges such as donor shortages and socioeconomic disparities, adult heart transplantation has achieved remarkable success in the US and Western Europe. The two regions have embraced different approaches to transplantation systems, shaped by cultural and political attitudes.

Lower prevalence of PSC among patients with IBD in Asia: Insights from a multinational study

A multinational study found PSC prevalence among Asian IBD patients to be markedly lower than in Western countries, associated with more favorable clinical outcomes. The proportion of asymptomatic PSC cases has increased due to improved imaging modality detection, allowing for early-stage diagnosis and reduced liver transplantation rates.

Immune reactions found behind human rejection of transplanted pig kidneys

Researchers have made breakthroughs in overcoming immune reactions behind human rejection of transplanted pig kidneys, paving the way for more successful clinical trials. The study reveals three major immune responses against the pig kidney and identifies potential biomarkers as early-warning systems for rejection.

Chronic kidney disease is now the ninth leading cause of death

A new study estimates that about 14% of adults worldwide have chronic kidney disease, with 1.5 million deaths in 2023. Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent severe interventions like dialysis and transplantation.

Donor kidneys perform better after machine perfusion

A long-term study found that machine perfusion of deceased-donor kidneys improved transplant outcomes by preserving kidney function for up to 10 years after transplantation. The method has become the preferred organ preservation technique globally due to its superior results.

Liver transplantation utilizing grafts donated after medical assistance in dying is feasible and has outcomes comparable to standard donation

A new study in the Journal of Hepatology shows liver transplantation from MAiD donors yields similar survival rates as standard donation after circulatory death. This practice can significantly expand the donor pool, leading to more organs available for transplant and potentially saving thousands of lives.

UVA Health developing way to ID people at risk of dangerous lung scarring even before symptoms appear

Researchers aim to determine if biomarkers can identify adults at risk of developing interstitial lung disease (ILD), a chronic condition that causes inflammation and scarring in the lung tissue. The approach could lead to the development of new, better treatments with more tolerable side effects.

World’s first pig-to-human liver xenotransplant in a living recipient reported in the Journal of Hepatology

A pioneering case of pig-to-human liver xenotransplantation has been successfully demonstrated, with the genetically engineered porcine liver functioning for an extended period in a human recipient. The patient survived for 171 days despite complications such as xenotransplantation-associated thrombotic microangiopathy.

Turning the tide on infant liver disease: Japan's 40-year registry reveals hope

A national registry has tracked nearly 4,000 patients with biliary atresia since 1989, showing that combined surgery and liver transplantation can extend survival well into adulthood. The study highlights the transformative power of nationwide data collection in reshaping treatment strategies.

UBC enzyme technology clears first human test toward universal donor organs for transplantation

Researchers at UBC have successfully transplanted an enzyme-converted kidney into a brain-dead recipient, showing promise for universal donor organs in transplantation. The breakthrough uses special enzymes to remove blood-type antigens, making it possible to use mismatched organs from deceased donors.

CU Anschutz researcher receives NIH grant to study earthworm hemoglobin as a substitute for red blood cells in organ perfusion

Heiko Yang, MD, PhD, has received a grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to further research on his discovery of an earthworm-derived hemoglobin-like oxygen carrier. This substance has the potential to revolutionize organ perfusion by providing a shelf-stable alternative to donor blood.

Researchers find “protective switches” that may make damaged livers suitable for transplantation

UCLA researchers have identified two key proteins, HuR and CEACAM1, that act as protective switches to prevent damage in damaged livers. By boosting this protection, organs deemed unsuitable for transplantation could be made suitable for use.

Children waiting for a new heart –study shows marked improvement in survival rates and the importance of Nordic cooperation

The study found a significant reduction in mortality while waiting for a new heart, despite increased waiting times. Technological advances and improved healthcare practices are credited with the improvements.

Teaching the immune system a new trick could one day level the organ transplant playing field

Researchers at Medical University of South Carolina engineered a new type of immune cell that can precisely target and neutralize antibody-producing cells complicit in organ rejection. This strategy could level the playing field for patients with limited eligibility for organs due to high rejection rates.

Engineering functional liver organoids with organ-specific vasculature

A novel 3D culture method enables self-organization of precursor cell types into functional liver organoids capable of producing essential clotting factors. The breakthrough advances organoid-based therapies, drug testing, and disease modeling for liver diseases, including hemophilia A.

Sugar-coated ‘sticky’ stem cells could unlock surgery-free liver treatments

Scientists at the University of Birmingham have developed a method to coat Hepatic Progenitor Cells (HPCs) with natural sugars, making them stickier and increasing their ability to repair liver tissues. The coating does not harm the cells or stop them from working properly.

University of Cincinnati study explores fertility treatment risks for kidney transplant recipients

A new study from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine examines pregnancy outcomes in women with kidney transplants who use assisted reproductive technology. The research found increased rates of hypertension and preterm birth, but no significant difference in live birth rates or two-year kidney transplant survival.

Eliminating the need for lifelong immunosuppressive medications for transplant patients

Researchers at Mayo Clinic developed pioneering therapies to prevent organ rejection without the need for immunosuppression. A recent phase 3 clinical trial found that 75% of participants were able to stop taking immunosuppressive medications for more than two years, with some patients staying off medication for over three years.

Pusan National University scientists uncover gene mutation tied to poor outcomes in transplant patients

Scientists from Pusan National University discovered a genetic biomarker, FCGBP, that is strongly linked to bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome and poor outcomes following lung transplantation. The finding may help identify high-risk patients and devise timely immunosuppressive treatments.

How to refocus in the age of distraction

A national survey of 1,000 American adults found that stress (43%) and lack of sleep (39%) are major contributors to a short attention span. The study also identified digital devices as a significant factor, with 35% of respondents citing it as a contributing factor.

New study reveals 33% gap in transplant access for UK’s poorest children

A new study reveals persistent inequalities in children's access to life-saving kidney transplants across the UK. Early disparities in ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and gender persist even after being placed on the waitlist.

New study provides breakthrough in pig-to-human kidney transplantation

A pioneering study has provided unprecedented insights into the immune response following pig-to-human kidney xenotransplantation. Researchers mapped how human immune cells interact with pig kidney tissue, revealing critical early markers of rejection and potential intervention strategies.

3D printing breakthrough: Scientists create functional human islets for type 1 diabetes treatment

A team of international scientists successfully 3D printed functional human islets using a novel bioink, paving the way for more effective and less invasive treatment options. The bioprinted constructs maintained their structure without clumping or breaking down and showed promising results in laboratory tests.

Mayo Clinic in Arizona announces launch of new lung transplant program offering hope and restored function to patients facing advanced lung disease

The Mayo Clinic in Arizona has launched a new lung transplant program, providing patients with end-stage lung disease a second chance at life. The program offers world-class care to critically ill patients battling respiratory diseases such as COPD, and is supported by clinical innovation from across Mayo Clinic.

Mount Sinai surgeons perform first heart-liver-kidney transplants in New York State

Surgeons at Mount Sinai performed the world's first heart-liver-kidney triple organ transplants in New York State, with two patients making full recoveries after the surgeries. The procedures were led by Anelechi Anyanwu and Sander S. Florman and represent a significant milestone in complex organ transplantation.

Mayo Clinic discovery could mean more donor hearts by extending the preservation time

Researchers identified a biological process causing donor heart damage during cold storage and found that a drug can prevent this damage. Treatment with the drug nearly tripled pumping strength in human donor hearts, improving blood flow and reducing cell injury.

Researchers discover why donor hearts fail in cold storage — and how to prevent it

A new molecular process discovered by researchers contributes to the failure of donor hearts after transplant, but a therapy using medication for high blood pressure has been found to reduce damage. The treatment significantly improves the function of donor hearts and increases their distance in cold storage.

USC, UCLA team up for the world’s first-in-human bladder transplant

Surgeons from USC and UCLA have successfully performed the world's first-in-human bladder transplant, offering a new treatment option for patients with terminal bladders. The procedure, which combined kidney and bladder transplants, showed promising results in improving the patient's condition and eliminating the need for dialysis.

First human bladder transplant performed at UCLA

Surgeons from UCLA Health and Keck Medicine of USC successfully performed the world's first-in-human bladder transplant. The patient, who had lost most of his bladder due to a tumor removal, received a new kidney and bladder through the pioneering technique developed by Drs. Nima Nassiri and Inderbir Gill.

Ochsner Transplant Institute’s kidney program achieves ELITE Status

The Ochsner Transplant Institute's kidney program has achieved ELITE Status through exceptional performance and superior results. The program demonstrates high-quality care and outstanding patient outcomes, earning recognition from INTERLINK COE Networks & Programs.

Study finds long-term health benefits from bariatric surgery and liver transplant

A recent study published in the Journal of Hepatology has shown that simultaneous bariatric surgery and liver transplant is safe and improves long-term health outcomes for severely obese patients. The combined approach resulted in sustained weight loss, reduced risk of type 2 diabetes, and lower risk of fatty liver disease recurrence.

DCD heart transplantation reaches 10-year mark, now up to 30% of transplant volumes

Researchers at ISHLT marked the 10-year anniversary of modern DCD heart donation, significantly increasing transplant volumes worldwide. Comparable outcomes have been achieved with DCD hearts compared to traditional DBD hearts, leading to a surge in DCD programs globally.

Experts at ISHLT report urgent need for pediatric heart support devices

Pediatric hearts fail due to acquired and genetic disorders or congenital heart disease, requiring mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices. However, adult devices are often used off-label in pediatric patients, deterring innovation and limiting access to life-saving technology.

“Concierge” screening for kidney transplant candidates leads to better outcomes, UNM researcher finds

A new 'concierge' approach called the Kidney Transplant Fast Track enables more people to receive transplants and erases racial disparities. This streamlined process coordinates testing onsite and often performed by the transplant center, increasing patient suitability and reducing wait times.

Advancements in organ preservation: paving the way for better transplantation outcomes

Current methods like static cold storage and machine perfusion have limitations, with only 10% of global demand met. Researchers explore vitrification cryopreservation as a promising alternative to address toxicity issues and improve transplant survival rates.

Vanderbilt lung transplant establishes new record

The Vanderbilt Lung Transplant program performed a record-breaking 99 lung transplants in 2024, with two combined organ transplants. The program leads the nation in innovation in organ preservation and regeneration, and has the busiest program in the Southeast.

Anti-obesity drugs benefit kidney transplant recipients with type 2 diabetes

A new study shows that anti-obesity drugs, including GLP-1 agonists, are safe and effective in treating type 2 diabetes in kidney transplant recipients. The medications were found to reduce the risk of organ failure and death, but also increase the risk of diabetic retinopathy.

Islet transplantation with blood vessel cells shows promise to treat type 1 diabetes

Researchers developed reprogrammed vascular endothelial cells that provide strong support for islets, allowing them to survive and reverse diabetes long-term. The study showed that mice transplanted with islet cells plus R-VECs regained normal blood glucose control after 20 weeks.