About xenotransplantation
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The case study is from an article written by Margaret McLean. It highlights the main idea of xenotransplantation, its importance and the weighing of individual benefit & risks to the public of animal virus infection. Xenotransplantation is the term used in the transplantation of living cells, tissues or organs from one species to another (eg from pigs to humans) for medical purposes. Pigs are the most promising donors because of its similar anatomical structure to humans and because they can be genetically modified. The article raised several issues that need to be addressed. Is the benefit to the individual justifiable when considered against the risk of infecting the public?
Why pursue xenotransplantation?
The current demand for healthy cells, tissue and organs for medical transplants exceeds the available supply. In Australia, as in other countries, there are not enough donor organs. This is an extreme situation and is increasing...