XENOTRANSPLANTATION - SCI
& TECH
News: First human recipient of pig
kidney transplant dies: What is xenotransplantation, why pigs are used
What's in the news?
●
Recently, the first person to receive a transplant
of a genetically modified pig kidney through Xenotransplantation passed away
approximately two months after the procedure.
Xenotransplantation:
●
It involves using
live animal cells, tissues, or organs to treat human medical conditions.
History and Need for
Xenotransplantation:
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The first attempts to use animal hearts in human
transplants happened in the 1980s.
●
There was a big shortage of human organs which were
needed for transplant. This led doctors to look at animal organs as an
alternative.
Xenotransplantation
Process:
●
Animal organs, like pig kidneys, are genetically altered to prevent the human body from
rejecting them. This involves removing certain animal genes and adding human
ones to make the organ more compatible.
●
After the transplant, continuous monitoring is
required to see how the body reacts to the new organ.
Risks and Complications:
1. Infection Risks:
●
There is a risk of transmitting infections from the
animal to the human recipient. This can affect not only the individual but
potentially spread to others.
2. Long-term Health
Risks:
●
There is also a concern about retroviruses. These
are viruses that could remain dormant and cause diseases years after the
transplant.
Why are Pigs Commonly
Used in Xenotransplantation?
1. Similar Body
Structure as Humans:
●
Pigs are often chosen because their body structure
and functions are similar to humans. Pigs are easy and cost-effective to breed.
2. Enhanced possibility
of Organ Size Matching:
● Different pig breeds offer a variety of organ sizes. This makes it easier to find a match for human recipients.