Definition & Meaning of "xenotransplant"

What is a "xenotransplant"?

A xenotransplant is a medical procedure where organs, tissues, or cells from one species are transferred into another species. Most commonly, this involves transferring animal organs into humans. Xenotransplants are being researched as a potential solution to the shortage of human organs available for transplantation. This procedure aims to save lives by providing another source for organs, but it involves significant challenges, including the risk of rejection by the recipient's immune system and the potential spread of animal diseases to humans. Advances in genetic engineering and immunology are helping to address these challenges, making xenotransplantation a promising field for the future.