First person receives kidney from genetically modified pig in Alabama transplant trial

Towana Looney, a 53-year-old grandmother from Alabama, recently became the first person to receive a kidney from a genetically modified pig. She has been on dialysis since 2016 and cannot accept a human kidney due to her immune system. The FDA allowed this experimental procedure by making an exception to its clinical study rules. While doctors say it is Looney's only option, the use of animal organs raises concerns about potential virus transmission and ethical issues regarding animal exploitation. The procedure has sparked controversy, with some fearing that patients may feel pressured to accept such transplants. Despite these concerns, Looney's case marks a significant development in transplant medicine.