The fourth pillar of the 50K goal is to drive innovation and research to increase donation and maximize transplantation.
AOPO Foundation
The AOPO Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, is dedicated to advancing research and innovation in organ and tissue donation and transplantation. Through its efforts, the Foundation supports the development of new knowledge and practices to further the mission of saving lives. In 2024, the Foundation opened it’s first grant cycle to fund impactful research initiatives.
AOPO Research Published in JAMA
The AOPO research, Normothermic Regional Perfusion Experience of Organ Procurement Organizations in the US, was published in JAMA on October 24, 2024.
This nationwide survey, conducted with full OPO participation, assessed NRP practices through 2023 and highlighted the need for standardized guidelines to increase organ availability. As NRP adoption expands, understanding its impact on donor hospitals, transplant centers, donor families, and recipients remains critical. To support this growth, the AOPO NRP Task Force is actively developing best practices to guide OPOs.
Industry Partners
AOPO partners with 15 Industry Partners that are diligently working to innovate and create new opportunities for technological advancements in enhancing the referral process, improving OPO team communications, preserving the quality of organs for transplantation, and expediting organ transportation services.
AOPO NRP Task Force
The AOPO NRP Workgroup was established in July 2023 by the AOPO Board of Directors to guide the operationalization of NRP. This diverse group, comprising experts with experience in OPOs, transplant centers, and perfusion, focuses on developing effective practices, professional development strategies, and public education initiatives to enhance the success and understanding of NRP.