Two genetically engineered pig kidneys, England, 1999
Would you accept a transplanted pig’s heart? Imagine if you have had serious heart problems; ideally doctors may offer a donated human heart that is a good match for you. Unfortunately human organs are in short supply, but there may be another option, xenotransplantation. This is when genetically engineered animal organs such as these pig’s kidneys are transplanted into humans. Xenotransplantation is currently researched in clinical trials in laboratories rather than actively practiced in operating theatres. These kidneys were engineered by British company Imutran Limited in 1999. All animal organs used for transplantation must be genetically altered so the human body does not reject them as ‘foreign’. Xenotransplantation could eventually be common surgery despite ethical and moral questions.
Object number:
2001-724
Related Themes and Topics
Glossary:
Glossary: transplant
Surgical operation to introduce organ or tissue from one person (the donor) to another (the recipient). It may also refer to the transfer of tissues from one part of a person's body to another part of the same person's body.
Glossary: kidney
No description.