Benefits of Xenotransplantation
Xenotransplantation is a scientific term that actually refers to the transplantation of tissues,Â’ organs and cells between members of different species. The application of this technique hasÂ’ been the goal of transplant specialists as it is considered to be helpful especially in cases ofÂ’ heart failure and kidney problems. Despite the possible benefits, xenotransplantation is stillÂ’ under great controversy.
1. Helps counter the shortage of human kidneys
Presently, the shortage of kidneys is currently severe, which in turn results in more time for anÂ’ allograft. Other ways to organ transplant, like implantable devices, stem or cell therapies areÂ’ sometimes considered. Nevertheless, the most realistic, option is xenotransplantation. The useÂ’ of animal transplants would eliminate the existing problem of clinical replacement.
2. Prevent the recurrence of infection diseases
The other advantage of xenotransplantation is actually the ability to avert the occurrence ofÂ’ some of the infectious diseases (since animals are not vulnerable to certain strain of virusesÂ’ like hepatitis C and B). Also, these organs can introduce extrinsic material solely for therapeuticÂ’ purposes.
3. Saves lives
There are over 500,000 women, children and men on the list waiting for organ transplants.Â’ Those on the waiting list usually rage from infants to adults. Xenotransplantation would help toÂ’ save the lives of thousands of patients all around the world.
4. Transplants can serve several purposes
Medical specialists ascertain that it is actually possible to transplant more than fifty tissues andÂ’ organs into others from every organ donor. For that reason, these organs can serve severalÂ’ purposes, from saving the recipient’s life to increasing value of life.
5. Reduce the causes of disability or organ failure
New insight into xenotransplantation, novel approached to imaging and diagnosis; increasingÂ’ emphasis of regeneration and prevention and the use of new technologies will help to alleviateÂ’ the most essential reasons for organ failure.
Despite the possible numerous benefits of xenotransplantation, it still has a cloud of greatÂ’ controversy. This may be due to the fact that it poses health risks as it is said to introduceÂ’ infectious agents in the body.
