Xenokidney for Kidney Failure
(EXPAND Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a new treatment for individuals with kidney failure who cannot receive a regular kidney transplant. The study evaluates the safety and effectiveness of the 10 GE Xenokidney, a specially developed kidney for transplantation. It targets those with end-stage kidney disease (severe kidney failure) who have been on dialysis for at least six months. Participants must live within three hours of the transplant center and have no other major organ issues. The trial will monitor the new kidney's function and safety throughout the patient's lifetime. As a Phase 1, Phase 2 trial, this research aims to understand how the treatment works in people and measure its effectiveness in an initial, smaller group, offering participants a chance to be among the first to benefit from this innovative approach.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but you cannot participate if you cannot discontinue chronic anticoagulation therapy (blood thinners).
What prior data suggests that the 10 GE Xenokidney is safe for patients with ESRD?
Research has shown that the 10 GE Xenokidney has promising safety results from earlier studies. In tests with baboons, these pig kidneys functioned well and maintained the animals' health. This suggests potential safety, but animal results don't always predict human outcomes.
As this trial is in its early stages (Phase 1 and Phase 2), it marks the first time the 10 GE Xenokidney is being tested in humans. Researchers are closely monitoring for any side effects or safety issues. The primary goal is to ensure the treatment's safety for patients. Although human data is not yet available, the animal studies provide a hopeful starting point for its safety.12345Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising?
Researchers are excited about the 10 GE Xenokidney treatment for kidney failure because it involves transplanting genetically engineered pig kidneys into humans. Unlike current treatments, such as dialysis or human kidney transplants, the Xenokidney approach offers a potentially unlimited supply of organs, addressing the significant shortage of human donors. This treatment is unique because the pig kidneys are modified to reduce the risk of rejection, potentially leading to better long-term outcomes for patients.
What evidence suggests that the 10 GE Xenokidney might be an effective treatment for kidney failure?
Research has shown that the 10 GE Xenokidney could be a promising option for treating end-stage kidney disease. This trial will evaluate the 10 GE Xenokidney, which uses a specially modified pig kidney for transplant. Early results suggest it might help patients unable to receive a regular kidney transplant or those on long waitlists. The 10 GE Xenokidney is designed to lower the risk of rejection by the body. Although still in early stages, these studies offer hope that using animal organs for transplants might become a viable option for kidney failure.12467
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults aged 55-70 with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) who've been on hemodialysis for at least 6 months. They must be ineligible for standard kidney transplants or unlikely to receive one soon due to long waitlists. Participants need a functioning dialysis access, agree to birth control if necessary, and commit to lifetime follow-up after the transplant.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Xenotransplantation
Participants receive the 10 GE Xenokidney transplantation
Post-transplant Follow-up (Part A)
Evaluation of efficacy and safety objectives, including all study endpoints and safety assessments
Long-term Follow-up (Part B)
Evaluation of participant survival, 10 GE Xenokidney survival, and screening for zoonotic infections
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- 10 GE Xenokidney
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
United Therapeutics
Lead Sponsor
Dr. Martine Rothblatt
United Therapeutics
Chief Executive Officer since 1996
PhD in Medical Ethics from the Royal London College of Medicine and Dentistry, JD and MBA from UCLA
Dr. Michael Benkowitz
United Therapeutics
Chief Medical Officer since 2023
MD from Harvard Medical School