xenotransplantation

What is this?

🎯 Simulator Tips

📚 Glossary

Xenotransplantation

Transplant between different species

AlphaGal

Pig sugar molecule causing hyperacute rejection

CRISPR

Gene editing tool to modify pig genome

Knockout

Removing a gene from the genome

Knockin

Adding a gene to the genome

HyperacuteRejection

Immediate immune attack (minutes)

AcuteRejection

Early immune attack (days-weeks)

PERV

Porcine Endogenous Retroviruses

Complement

Immune system proteins that attack foreign cells

Immunosuppression

Drugs to reduce immune system activity

🏆 Key Figures

David Bennett Sr.

Muhammad Mohiuddin

Led University of Maryland xenotransplant program

George Church

CRISPR pioneer, co-founded eGenesis

Luhan Yang

CEO of eGenesis, pig gene editing

💬 Message to Learners

{'encouragement': "You're learning about medicine at the frontier - technology that could eliminate the organ shortage and save hundreds of thousands of lives. Xenotransplantation is happening NOW, not in the distant future.", 'reminder': 'The first pig heart transplants have already occurred. Clinical trials are underway. This is real medicine being developed in real time.', 'action': 'Edit pig genes in the simulator. See how different modifications affect rejection. Understand the immune challenges being overcome.', 'dream': 'A surgeon from Kenya might perform xenotransplants that save lives across Africa. A geneticist from Nigeria might improve pig organ compatibility. The organ shortage is a global problem needing global solutions.', 'wiaVision': 'WIA Pin Code believes life-saving medical knowledge should reach everyone. Xenotransplantation could transform medicine in regions where donor organs are especially scarce.'}