What do you need to know about xenotransplantation?
What do you need to know about xenotransplantation?
Xenotransplantation refers to the transplantation of living cells, tissues, or organs from individuals of species into another species. Among the various fields of transplantation, none has sparked greater excitement and none greater controversy than xenotransplantation.
Who are the best animal donors for xenotransplantation?
Potential animal organ donors. Since they are the closest relatives to humans, non-human primates were first considered as a potential organ source for xenotransplantation to humans. Chimpanzees were originally considered the best option since their organs are of similar size, and they have good blood type compatibility with humans,…
When was the first xenograft attempt in humans?
Following these disappointing results, xenograft attempts in humans were stopped for a long period of time; in fact, no xenotransplants were reported for 40 years. The real start of the xenotransplantation story was in 1963, when K. Reemtsma, working in New York, transplanted chimpanzee kidneys into thirteen humans [8].
Is the rejection of a porcine transplant strong?
However, the rejection of a porcine transplant can be strong and involve multiple branches of the innate and acquired immune system, a condition that is related to the distance on the evolutionary tree between the two species.
Are there any living animals used in xenotransplant research?
Not all the research uses living animals; some involves test tube experiments with cells and tissues. But the number of institutes involved indicates that much effort is being directed towards xenotransplant development. Furthermore, there is no shortage of funds.
Are there any restrictions on xenotransplantations in Canada?
However, the live cells, tissues and organs from animal sources are considered to be therapeutic products (drugs or medical devices) in Canada. Thus, xenotransplantations are subject to the requirements of the Food and Drugs Act, the Food and Drug Regulations or the Medical Devices Regulations.
What is the risk of rejection in xenotransplantation?
This would include defence against transplanted tissues, cells and organs that are not normally seen in a human body. Thus, the risk of rejection in xenotransplantation primarily involves the immune system attacking the transplanted tissue and not recognizing it.
