Scientists have successfully implanted bioengineered oesophagi, grown from stem cells, into pigs, restoring their ability to swallow and eat. This breakthrough, led by Paolo De Coppi from University College London, could pave the way for treating human conditions like cancer or long-gap oesophageal atresia, a birth defect. The team used muscle and connective tissue samples from pigs to create stem cells, which were then grown on oesophagus scaffolds. After implantation, the pigs showed functioning muscle, nerves, and blood vessels, with some scar tissue that reduced over time. This research, published in Nature Biotechnology, highlights the potential for lab-grown organs to replace invasive surgeries currently used for such conditions.
QUESTION: How might the development of lab-grown organs change the future of medical treatments for congenital conditions and diseases?
Lab-grown oesophagus restores pigs’ ability to swallow
