Author(s) :

Samantha Fang.

Volume/Issue :

Abstract :

Several studies have suggested that xenotransplantation on humans may successfully serve as an alternative organ supply for patients; however, due to differences in genomes and the addition of porcine endogenous retroviruses (PERVs), a long-term solution remains unclear. From the animal organs that have been tested on humans, many pig organs fail almost immediately upon implantation due to T-cell immune system response in the human body. Analysis from three case studies on brain dead patients show the effects of using xenotransplantation as a replacement for human organs, with the body’s immune system reacting violently in some cases. Throughout the reported studies, the patients used a variety of immunosuppressants, attempting to integrate the new organ. In addition to scientific challenges, xenotransplantation also raises important ethical concerns regarding animal welfare, public health risks, and access to treatments. Despite these limitations, current research suggests that xenotransplantation could potentially change many lives and give people more flexibility and freedom. However, this research can still cause many ethical and scientific challenges.