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Xenotransplantation: Benefits & Challenges

  • Context (TOI): Women receive gene-edited pig kidney through Xenotransplantation in the US.

About Xenotransplantation

  • Xenotransplantation, also known as heterologous transplant, involves the transplantation, implantation or infusion into a human recipient of either:
    1. Live cells, tissues, or organs from a nonhuman animal source, or
    2. Human body fluids, cells, tissues or organs that have had ex vivo contact with live nonhuman animal cells, tissues or organs.
  • Benefits: Xenotransplantation shows promise for treating conditions like neurodegenerative diseases and diabetes, where human cells and tissues are often unavailable.

Xenotransplantation

Why are pigs often used for xenotransplantation?

  • The pig’s anatomical and physiological parameters are similar to that of humans, and the breeding of pigs in farms is widespread and cost-effective.
  • Also, many varieties of pig breeds are farmed, which provides an opportunity for the size of the harvested organs to be matched with the specific needs of the human recipient.

xenotransplantation - PMF IAS

Credit: BBC

Other types of transplantation

  • Autotransplantation is a surgical procedure that involves transplanting a tissue or organ from one part of the body to another in the same person. The term “auto” means “self”, like Skin graft.
  • Allotransplantation involves transplantation between two people who are not genetically identical.
  • Isograft is a transplant between identical twins.

Uses of xenotransplantation products

Uses of xenotransplantation products

Source: FDA

Challenges

  • Zoonotic Diseases: The risk of transmitting diseases from animals to humans is another concern.
  • Ethical Concerns: Raises ethical questions about animal rights and welfare. Additionally, there are concerns regarding the genetic modification of animals for this purpose.
  • Psychological Impact: Recipients of animal organs might face psychological challenges and social stigma, which can negatively affect their mental health and overall quality of life.
  • Long-Term Viability: The long-term function and survival of xenotransplanted organs are uncertain. These organs may not perform as efficiently or last as long as human organs, presenting a challenge for patients and medical practitioners.

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