A group of South Korean scientists say they have successfully cloned genetically modified mini-pigs whose organs are more suitable for xenotransplantation --- transplantation between different species.

The scientists from Chungnam National University and the bioengineering company MGEN said Tuesday that they cloned in May a piglet with Fas Ligand, a type of human gene that prevents immune rejection. They say the piglets are growing well 90 days after they were cloned.

Immuno-rejection has been a major hurdle in human organ transplants.

The cloning of genetically altered piglets is expected to reduce immune rejection during pancreas or cornea transplants into humans.