Xenotransplantation involves transplanting tissues or organs from one species to another. Some medical researchers are exploring the possibility of transplanting pig organs into humans to address the worldwide human organ donor shortage. What strategies might help with the success of such transplantations? (Select all that apply.)
A) Create transgenic pigs that lack a sugar molecule that humans do not have for use as organ donors.
B) Inject human organ transplant recipients with a sugar molecule from pigs that they do not have prior to transplantation.
C) Treat pigs with immunosuppressive drugs prior to harvesting their organs for donation.
D) Treat human organ transplant recipients with immunosuppressive drugs following xenotransplantation.
E) Administer pig bone marrow to the human organ transplant recipient prior to transplantation.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Creating transgenic pigs that lack certain sugar molecules can reduce immune rejection. Treating human recipients with immunosuppressive drugs helps prevent organ rejection. Administering pig bone marrow may help induce tolerance to the transplanted organ.

Xenotransplantation Involves Transplanting Tissues or Organs from One Species to Another