The Naked Scientists Podcast

First pig lung transplant, and the origins of dark energy

6 snips
Aug 29, 2025
Neil Gilbert, a researcher at Oklahoma State University focusing on light pollution and bird behavior, discusses groundbreaking advancements in organ transplantation, including the controversial pig lung transplant in China. He highlights the urgent need for organ solutions while reflecting on implications for cross-species transplants. Additionally, the conversation delves into an intriguing theory connecting dark energy to black holes, revealing new cosmic insights. Gilbert also sheds light on how artificial light disrupts bird behavior, impacting their vocal patterns and migration.
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ANECDOTE

First Pig Lung Into A Human

  • A genetically modified pig lung was implanted into a brain-dead 39-year-old in China to test feasibility.
  • The organ functioned but developed a severe immune reaction and failed by day nine.
INSIGHT

Immune Barrier Makes Xenotransplants Hard

  • Xenotransplantation shows technical feasibility but faces strong immunological barriers.
  • Jas Palm believes stem-cell derived or 3D-printed human organs may be the more practical long-term solution.
INSIGHT

Black Holes As A Dark Energy Source

  • DESI maps millions of galaxies to probe cosmic expansion and dark energy's behavior.
  • A provocative new hypothesis suggests black holes convert infalling matter into dark energy that pervades space.
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