Scientists in the United Kingdom have successfully transplanted a lab-grown esophagus into a pig for the first time, and it is functioning for swallowing food.
In a study conducted by scientists at Great Ormond Street Hospital and University College London, it was found that an esophagus can be transplanted by removing the donor animal’s cells and generating cells from the recipient animal, allowing the organ’s function to be restored.
The hospital stated that this breakthrough is a major step forward in personalized regenerative treatment for children born with life threatening esophageal conditions.
Senior researcher Dr. Marco Pellegrini at University College London said that using this technology, a new esophagus can be created from a child’s own cells.
