Biotechnological Advancements in Animal Organ Transplantation and Xenotransplantation

Volume: 11 | Issue: 01 | Year 2025 | Subscription
International Journal of Animal Biotechnology and Applications
Received Date: 01/09/2025
Acceptance Date: 02/11/2025
Published On: 2025-03-06
First Page: 6
Last Page: 10

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By: Abhishek Dubey and Jugal Jaiswal

Abstract

Biotechnological advancements in the fields of animal organ transplantation and xenotransplantation have made significant strides over the past few decades. These advancements offer promising solutions to the worldwide shortage of organs needed for transplants. Xenotransplantation – transplanting organs or tissues from animals to humans – shows great potential in tackling this problem. Recent breakthroughs in biotechnology, such as genetic engineering, immune suppression techniques, and improved organ preservation methods, have brought xenotransplantation to the cutting edge of medical research. The success of transplanting animal organs into humans depends on overcoming the immune system’s natural rejection of foreign tissues. One of the major challenges has been the use of genetically modified animals that possess organs that are more compatible with human biology. This review delves into the technological advances in genetic modification, particularly in the development of transgenic pigs, and the use of CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing tools. These innovations have been instrumental in producing organs with reduced risk of rejection and enhanced compatibility with human recipients. Furthermore, the development of immune-modulating therapies, such as monoclonal antibodies and immunosuppressants, has contributed to minimizing the likelihood of immune rejection. Biotechnological advancements in tissue engineering have also allowed for better preservation of animal organs, extending their functional lifespan, and reducing the need for immediate transplantation. Despite the progress, ethical concerns and potential risks associated with xenotransplantation remain. The possibility of cross-species transmission of infectious diseases, the creation of transgenic animals, and the impact on biodiversity raise significant ethical questions. Regulatory frameworks are being put in place to address these concerns, yet much more research is required before xenotransplantation becomes a routine practice. This review article examines the current state of animal organ transplantation, the biotechnological advancements enabling xenotransplantation, the challenges that still need to be addressed, and the outlook for this promising field. The article highlights both the benefits, and the risks involved, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of how these biotechnological advances might revolutionize the field of organ transplantation.

Keywords: Xenotransplantation, genetic engineering, animal organ transplantation, CRISPR-Cas9, transgenic pigs, immune suppression, ethical issues

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Citation:

How to cite this article: Abhishek Dubey and Jugal Jaiswal, Biotechnological Advancements in Animal Organ Transplantation and Xenotransplantation. International Journal of Animal Biotechnology and Applications. 2025; 11(01): 6-10p.

How to cite this URL: Abhishek Dubey and Jugal Jaiswal, Biotechnological Advancements in Animal Organ Transplantation and Xenotransplantation. International Journal of Animal Biotechnology and Applications. 2025; 11(01): 6-10p. Available from:https://journalspub.com/publication/uncategorized/article=15608

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