Xenotransplant-associated infections.

Area of Science:

• Transplantation immunology
• Infectious diseases
• Microbiology

Background:

• Organ transplantation faces a critical shortage of human organs for allotransplantation.
• Xenotransplantation, using animal organs, is explored for treating organ failure and diseases like Parkinson's and diabetes.
• A significant concern is the potential for novel zoonotic infections arising from xenotransplantation procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically examine the risks and proposed mechanisms of xenogeneic infections in xenotransplantation.
• To review current knowledge and identify knowledge gaps regarding microbial agents in xenotransplantation.
• To focus on microbial agents from baboons and swine, the primary donor species.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of scientific publications on xenotransplantation and zoonotic infections.
• Analysis of microbial agents associated with potential xenotransplantation donor species, primarily baboons and swine.
• Examination of proposed mechanisms for the transmission and pathogenesis of xenogeneic infections.

Main Results:

• Xenotransplantation presents a viable alternative to allografts but necessitates rigorous assessment of microbial risks.
• Understanding the microbiome of donor animals is crucial for mitigating zoonotic disease transmission.
• Specific microbial agents from baboons and swine require further investigation to ensure xenograft safety.

Conclusions:

• Xenotransplantation holds promise but requires careful management of infectious risks, particularly zoonoses.
• Continued research into the microbial agents of baboon and swine is essential for the safe advancement of xenotransplantation.
• Addressing concerns about xenogeneic infections is paramount for the clinical success of xenotransplantation.