In an unprecedented event for Latin America, a group of Argentine researchers has successfully cloned the first pig genetically designed to facilitate organ donation to humans. This innovative project took place at the Faculty of Veterinary Sciences of UBA, where a seemingly common piglet was born, but with a genome modified thanks to the CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing technique.
The first cloned pig for organ donation in Latin America
The DNA of this pig contains a “triple knockout“, meaning three genes were deactivated to reduce the rejection of the human immune system during a possible transplant. Previously, only the United States and China had achieved this technological advancement.
This achievement was possible thanks to the joint work between UBA, the <a href="https://noticias.unsam.edu.ar/2026/05/07/xenotrasplantes-crofabiotech-logro-un-hito-cientifico-sin-precedentes-en-america-latina/” target=”_blank”>National University of San Martín and the startup CrofaBiotech. Through a combination of advanced gene editing and embryo transfer, the consortium seeks to address a fundamental problem: the lack of available organs for transplants.
The need for organs in Argentina is critical. According to INCUCAI data, more than 7,000 people are on the waiting list for a transplant, while only 900 interventions have been performed so far in 2026. Globally, the World Health Organization estimates that only 10% of the demand for organs is met, leaving many people in desperate situations.
The pig was chosen for its anatomical and physiological similarity to humans, as well as its rapid reproductive cycle. However, the main challenge is that the human immune system tends to reject porcine organs. To resolve this, the team led by Dr. Adrián Mutto genetically modified the animal to reduce this immune response.
The cloning process involved an innovative surgical method that does not rely on conventional artificial insemination. Guadalupe Álvarez, an expert in large animal surgery, explained that the modified embryos were implanted directly into the recipient sow, resulting in a high pregnancy rate.
The next steps include continuing with the cloning of new specimens and advancing towards knock-in, which involves the incorporation of human genes to increase compatibility with the human immune system. This work could position Argentina as a leader in regenerative medicine.
The project faces financial challenges, as commercial expansion requires private investment. Crofabiotech, the startup behind the development, seeks to attract investments while UBA provides support in infrastructure and specialized personnel.
With the aim of completing preclinical trials and advancing towards human testing, this advancement positions Argentina on par with countries with advanced xenotransplant technology, such as the United States and China.
