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:
Live cells, tissues, or organs from a nonhuman animal source, or
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.
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.
Autotransplantation is a surgical procedure that involves transplanting a tissue or organ from one part of the bodyto another in the same person. The term “auto” means “self”, like Skin graft.
Allotransplantation involves transplantation between two people who are not genetically identical.
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.