Potential risks of viral infections in xenotransplantation

The shortage of cadaveric human organs for transplantation may, be alleviat ed by the use of xenografts as a therapeutic option for end-stage organ fai lure. Successful attempts have been made to prevent rejection of xenograft tissues in humans. The potential spread of animal-derived pathogens to the xenograft recipient is a complication of xenotransplantation, which must be addressed. This can be complicated further by, the presence of new pathoge ns, new clinical syndromes, and altered behaviour of these organisms in the immunocompromised recipient. There is concern over the possible activation of latent viruses, including retroviruses, from xenograft tissues. This pa per discusses the possible dangers of transmission of animal viruses to hum ans via xenotransplantation. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights rese rved.