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Animal to human transplantation research (Xenotransplantation)

Animal to human transplantation in its three forms has potential benefits and risks. Community consultation on xenotransplantation occurred in 2002 and 2004.

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Definition: What is animal to human transplantation?

Xenotransplantation is the term used to cover the transplantation of cells, tissues or organs from one species to another - such as from pigs to humans (ie, animal-to-human transplantation).

The procedure was initially thought unlikely to succeed but recent advances in genetic manipulation of animals and the mechanisms of transplant rejection have made xenotransplantation appear more feasible.

The NHMRC distinguishes between three types of animal-to-human transplantation:

  • whole animal organ transplants;
  • animal cellular therapies; and
  • animal external therapies.

Information on each of these procedures can be found in the documents listed on this webpage. (see especially the Community Guide ).

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The NHMRC's position on animal to human transplantation research

In 2004, the NHMRC considered whether or not clinical trials into animal-to-human transplantation therapies should proceed in Australia. The NHMRC recommended in December 2004 that there should be no animal-to-human clinical trials in Australia for a period of 5 years.

This consideration was the culmination of work undertaken by the NHMRC's Xenotransplantation Working Party, which was established in 2000 to consider a number of important issues relating to animal-to-human transplantation. This Working Party undertook two rounds of extensive public consultation on this issue (in 2002 and 2004). The NHMRC's Australian Health Ethics Committee provided Secretariat support to this Working Party.

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Frequently asked questions

For more information on animal to human transplantation see our answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) about xenotransplantation.
» See more information on the FAQs

This guide was developed by the working party to inform public consultation, and it provides useful information on xenotransplantation.
» Download: Animal-to-human transplantation research: A guide for the community (PDF, 147kb) PDF icon

Animal-to-human transplantation (xenotransplantation): Final report and advice to the NHMRC
» Download: Animal-to-human transplantation: Final report and advice (PDF, 492kb) PDF icon

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Further information

Animal-to-human transplantation research: How should Australia proceed?

Response to the 2002 public consultation on Draft guidelines and Discussion Paper on xenotransplantation.
» Download: Animal-to-human transplantation research: How should Australia proceed? (PDF, 1119kb) PDF icon

Draft guidelines and discussion paper on xenotransplantation

A document prepared to informed the first round of public consultation in 2002.
» Download: Draft guidelines and discussion paper on xenotransplantation (PDF, 774kb) PDF icon

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