Xenotransplantation: The Transplantation of Organs and Tissues Between Species

The success of transplantation in the treatment of human disease has increased the demand for organs and tissues far beyond the available supply. Xenotransplantation - the use of animals as donors - is viewed increasingly as the solution to this problem. Research into xenotransplantation has intensified greatly in the past five years since the first edition of this book was published. This second edition reflects this activity and provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of knowledge of the immunobiology of xenograft rejection and of the many therapeutic options being explored. Authored by the world's leading researchers, the volume is essential reading for anyone interested in the medical, scientific or ethical aspects of xenotransplantation. Many believe that we are on the threshold of clinical trials using genetically engineered animals as donors of organs. If successful, the rewards of clinical xenotransplantation will be immense and will represent one of the greatest medical advances of the modern era.