Scientists Create First Lab-Grown Esophagus

Scientists from University College London and Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) have created the first lab-grown esophagus, restoring organ function in animals.

Researchers used a donor pig's esophagus, removing the cells while preserving the support structure. They then repopulated the tissue with muscle cells from a recipient pig.

According to the study in 'Nature Biotechnology', recipient animals survived for at least 30 days post-transplant. By the sixth month, the grafts had developed functional muscles, nerves, and blood vessels, allowing food transport. The animals fed normally. Some strictures were treated endoscopically.

The transplant did not require immunosuppression, as the graft was grown with the recipient's cells.

This innovation offers hope for personalized therapies for children with esophageal conditions, such as esophageal atresia.

Professor Paolo De Coppi emphasizes the similarity between pig and human esophagus, and the potential for using pig tissues to create biocompatible grafts.

The research team is working to improve the process and conduct more safety tests.