Islam and Xenotransplantation: How Do Muslims View the Ethical and Religious Implications of Pig Kidney Transplants?

Jan 29, 2025 - 21:13
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Islam and Xenotransplantation: How Do Muslims View the Ethical and Religious Implications of Pig Kidney Transplants?

In a remarkable medical breakthrough, 53-year-old Towana Looney from Alabama has set a new record as the longest-living recipient of a gene-edited pig kidney transplant, reaching 61 days post-surgery.

This achievement marks a major step forward in xenotransplantation the transplantation of animal organs into humans offering new hope for addressing the severe shortage of human donor organs.

Looney's path to this historic procedure began decades ago when she donated a kidney to her mother in 1999. However, complications during pregnancy later led to high blood pressure, which damaged her remaining kidney and ultimately resulted in kidney failure.

Despite spending eight years on dialysis, her elevated antibody levels made finding a suitable human donor nearly impossible, as tests showed her body would reject any available kidney.

In November 2024, Looney underwent an experimental transplant at NYU Langone Health, led by Dr. Robert Montgomery. The pig kidney used in the procedure had undergone 10 genetic modifications to improve its compatibility with the human body. Remarkably, the organ began functioning immediately, turning a healthy pink and producing urine.

Since the operation, Looney has experienced significant improvements in both her health and energy levels. She was discharged from the hospital 11 days after surgery and, despite a brief readmission for medication adjustments, continues to recover well. Doctors expect she will be able to return home to Gadsden, Alabama, within three months.

Beyond transforming Looney's life, this successful transplant represents a major leap in xenotransplantation research. With over 100,000 people on the U.S. transplant waiting list most needing kidneys genetically modified pig organs could provide a promising alternative to human donors. Scientists are optimistic that this approach could help alleviate the organ shortage crisis, offering new hope to patients awaiting transplants.

However, the use of pig organs in human transplants raises ethical and religious concerns, particularly within the Muslim community.

In Islam, pigs are considered impure (haram), leading to debate over whether such medical procedures align with Islamic teachings. Some Islamic scholars argue that preserving human life takes precedence over dietary laws, while others maintain that alternative solutions should be pursued.

Looney's case continues to be closely monitored to gather valuable insights that will guide future procedures and further refine xenotransplantation techniques. Her story stands as an inspiring testament to the potential of medical innovation in overcoming once-unsurmountable challenges for those in need of life saving transplants.

Benjamin Mwibo Benjamin Mwibo is a talented, passionate and creative journalist with a commitment to high quality out put that is factual and researched. Above all Dedicated with a strong desire to identify the truth of the matter.