Public communication and perception of xenotransplantation

Xenotransplantation is closer to clinical reality than ever, with planned clinical trials in development. Enrolling participants in these trials may be difficult without an understanding of patient and public perceptions, attitudes, and ethical concerns related to xenotransplantation. In this article, we summarize recent literature and discuss areas for continued focus related to the public perception of xenotransplantation.

Following the first living human xenotransplant in January 2022, several surveys have assessed various groups' acceptance of xenotransplantation. Awareness of xenotransplant remains low despite the widely publicized first-in-human experiences. Acceptance rates vary widely and depend on the scenario presented (factors such as success compared to allotransplant) and the level of existing knowledge. However, evidence is highly focused on Western populations and upper middle-income countries. The public's understanding and thoughts related to issues such as informed consent, animal welfare, the influence of religion, and zoonosis have not been adequately addressed.

Despite decades of attempts to understand public perception and attitudes around xenotransplantation, there remains little information, and essential knowledge gaps exist. More active involvement of diverse populations should be considered to support the future of equitable xenotransplantation.