The promise of organ rejuvenation to overcome the shortage in organ transplantation

Abstract

Abstract Organ shortage remains a major barrier in treating end-stage organ failure, with many patients dying while waiting or becoming medically unfit by the time an organ is offered. A substantial number of organs, particularly from older donors, remain unused due to concerns over age-related decline in quality. This review highlights emerging strategies to rejuvenate and optimize such organs by mitigating ischemia-reperfusion injury and reducing age-related immunogenicity. Advances in organ preservation, perfusion technologies, and novel therapies – including senotherapeutics, anti-inflammatory agents, and stem cell treatments – show promise in improving graft viability and bridging the gap between organ supply and demand.