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The importance of public engagement in clinical xenotransplantation
Daniel J Hurst1, David K C Cooper2
1Department of Family Medicine Rowan-Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine Stratford New Jersey USA.
Abstract:
Over the past several decades, significant scientific progress in xenotransplantation has brought the field to the threshold of clinical trials. In the past 3 years in the United States, experimental pig kidney and heart xenotransplantation have been performed on human subjects recently declared dead by neurological criteria (decedents). In addition, two pig heart transplants have been carried out in living patients under the United States Food and Drug Administration's expanded access guidelines. However, though there has been a flurry of activity there remain unanswered questions regarding how the public views xenotransplantation, what concerns may exist, and how to address these concerns in a meaningful way. This paper aims to underscore the importance of public engagement in xenotransplantation, emphasizing the ongoing need for studies to assess public opinions. The current evidence on public engagement studies is reviewed and gaps in our understanding are identified. We propose practical steps to advance this field. Additional studies to determine the extent of racial/ethnic differences in attitudes to xenotransplantation should be conducted. Empirical and descriptive analysis of certain religious viewpoints-especially minority faiths-would be valuable. As public engagement is an important aspect of public acceptance of novel research that is accompanied by risk, we suggest that xenotransplantation biotechnology companies might consider leading the way in funding this research.
Insights
Public engagement is crucial for advancing xenotransplantation, including pig organ transplants. Further research is needed to understand public views and address concerns for successful clinical integration.
Area of Science:
- Transplantation Biology
- Bioethics
- Public Health
Background:
- Significant scientific advancements in xenotransplantation have positioned the field for clinical trials.
- Recent experimental pig kidney and heart xenotransplantation in human decedents and living patients highlight the field's progress.
- Despite progress, public perception, concerns, and engagement strategies for xenotransplantation remain underexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To emphasize the critical need for public engagement in xenotransplantation.
- To review existing evidence on public engagement studies and identify knowledge gaps.
- To propose actionable steps for advancing public engagement in xenotransplantation research.
Main Methods:
- Review of current evidence on public engagement studies in xenotransplantation.
- Identification of gaps in understanding public attitudes and concerns.
- Proposal of practical steps and recommendations for future research.
Main Results:
- Existing research on public engagement in xenotransplantation is limited, with significant gaps in understanding.
- There is a need for studies examining racial/ethnic differences in attitudes towards xenotransplantation.
- Analysis of religious viewpoints, particularly minority faiths, is valuable for comprehensive understanding.
Conclusions:
- Public engagement is essential for the acceptance and ethical implementation of xenotransplantation.
- Further research is required to address specific demographic and cultural perspectives on xenotransplantation.
- Biotechnology companies should consider funding public engagement research to foster trust and acceptance.
