Xenotransplantation
Xenotransplantation (xenos- from the Greek meaning "foreign"), is the transplantation of living cells, tissues or organs from one species to another. Such cells, tissues or organs are called xenografts or xenotransplants. In contrast, the term allotransplantation refers to a same-species transplant.
Xenotransplantation of human tumor cells into immunocompromised mice is a research technique frequently used in pre-clinical oncology research.
Human xenotransplantation offers a potential treatment for end-stage organ failure, a significant health problem in parts of the industrialized world. It also raises many novel medical, legal and ethical issues. A continuing concern is that many animals, such as pigs, have a shorter lifespan than humans, meaning that their tissues age at a quicker rate. Disease transmission (xenozoonosis) and permanent alteration to the genetic code of animals are also causes for concern. A few successful cases of xenotransplantation are published.
Podcasts:
-
by Malignancy
Xenotransplantation
by: MalignancyA question of ethics, stemmed from transferral
Genome laced with retroviruses
Potential creation of infectious agent
Implications of a practical application
Contentious technology never falters commitment
Hyper acute rejection from transgenic
Humanization, lucrative venture
Dismissal of adverse effects, new organ coupling
Experiments continue to perfect animal to human
Financial gain with the decay accelerating factor,
viable strategy
Engineered ideals, true science or true profit
Corporate gluttony, racing towards a means to an end
Master techniques for transplantation
Humanization, lucrative venture
A question of ethics, public outcry
Endogenous faculties reek havoc on recipient
Technology usage without formal testing
The human element is suppressed by vertebrate
Proteins block compliment activation
Immunosuppressive regimen needed for survival
Experiments continue to perfect animal to human
Financial gain with the decay accelerating factor,
corporate gluttony
Underground research soon to surface