Xenotransplantation

Xenotransplantation: Recently, the Chinese researchers successfully transplanted a genetically modified pig liver into a brain-dead human recipient to assess its survival and functionality.

• About Xenotransplantation: It is defined as the transplantation, implantation, or infusion of live cells, tissues, or organs from a non-human animal into a human recipient.

o Ex Vivo Interaction: Includes human cells, tissues, or organs that have had prior contact with non-human animal cells/tissues outside the body.

o Historical Background: Early attempts at human heart xenotransplantation in the 1980s.

o Genetic Modifications: Essential to prevent immune rejection in human recipients.

o Post-Transplant Monitoring: Ensures organ functionality and detects potential immune responses.

• Why Pigs Are Used for Xenotransplantation

o Medical Use: Pig heart valves have been used in human valve replacements for over 50 years.

o Similarity: Anatomical and physiological resemblance to humans makes pigs ideal donors.

o Availability: Pigs are widely farmed, making organs cost-effective and scalable.

o Size Matching: Variety of pig breeds allows organ size customization for human needs.

• Procedure: Gene-edited pig liver transplanted into a brain-dead human recipient.
• Key Genetic Modifications: Six gene edits to prevent immune rejection and insertion of human transgenes to enhance compatibility.