The first person to undergo a transplant of a genetically modified pig kidney has passed away two months after the surgery.

Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), where the procedure took place in March, announced on Sunday, May 12, that Richard "Rick" Slayman, 62, has died.

There is no indication that his death was directly linked to the transplant.

Previous attempts to transplant organs from genetically modified pigs have been unsuccessful. However, Mr. Slayman's operation, conducted due to his end-stage kidney disease, was considered a significant advancement.

In addition to kidney disease, Mr. Slayman also battled Type 2 diabetes and hypertension. He had received a human kidney transplant in 2018, but it began to fail after five years.

Following his pig kidney transplant on March 16, his doctors confirmed he no longer required dialysis as the new organ was functioning well.

"Mr. Slayman will forever be remembered as a symbol of hope for numerous transplant patients worldwide, and we are deeply thankful for his confidence and willingness to push the boundaries of xenotransplantation," MGH stated.

Xenotransplantation involves transplanting living cells, tissues, or organs from one species to another.

MGH expressed deep sorrow at his unexpected passing and extended condolences to his family.

His relatives described his story as inspirational, noting that he underwent the procedure to offer hope to the thousands in need of a transplant.

"Rick achieved that objective, and his hope and positivity will live on forever. To us, Rick was a compassionate man with a sharp sense of humor who was fiercely devoted to his family, friends, and colleagues," they added.

While Mr. Slayman was the first to receive a pig kidney transplant, other pig organs have been used in transplant procedures. Two patients received pig heart transplants, but both died a few weeks later. In one case, there were indications of organ rejection, a common risk in transplants.