The announcement of the Minnesota facility came as United seeks FDA approval to begin clinical trials to prove the safety and effectiveness of organ transplants from pigs to humans. Human trials would initially focus on modified kidneys.
According to Steadman, several factors were decisive in selecting the Stewartville site to support his ongoing research: the region’s qualified workforce in healthcare, biotechnology and agriculture, its proximity to Rochester International Airport and the presence of the Mayo Clinic.
Although Mayo is not directly affiliated with the project, United and Mayo have a long history of working together. In 2019, the two organizations joined forces to build a 75,000-square-foot research and innovation center on Mayo’s campus in Jacksonville, Florida, to address the shortage of lungs available for transplant. In 2022, United CEO Dr. Martine Rothblatt was appointed to Mayo’s Board of Trustees.
Mayo declined to comment and referred further questions to United.
Once the facility is operational, United plans to have up to 200 pigs on site and employ about 20 people. All employees must shower and fully sterilize themselves before entering the facility and are regularly tested for pathogens that could be transmitted to the pigs, Steadman said.
