Xenotransplantation and its adverse effects on the immunology of the human body and solutions

Abstract

The current demand in the U.S. for a transplant far exceeds of what is available. In fact, 22 people die each day because they do not get the necessary organ in time. With the human population growing, this problem will surely continue to get worse, but innovative solutions exist. Xenotransplantation, a method where a non-human organ is transplanted into a human, offers exciting potential like none seen before. An unlimited number of cells, tissues, and organs could be “manufactured” through genetic engineering, and this would truly be able to solve the high demand of organs in the United States. Obviously, tons of hurdles exist. Based on multiple sources, specific effects because of hidden diseases inside the graft, or organ of the animal, can cause damage to the patient which is alarming. Organ rejection is also deeply covered: the several types and what it entails in the body. Analyzing from various sources, the purpose of this research paper is to explain the adverse effects that transplantation can cause and to promote further research and investigation on combating the adversities presented.