Xenotransfusion information

Xenotransfusion (from Greek xenos- 'strange, foreign'), a form of xenotransplantation, was initially defined as the transfer of blood from one species into the veins of another.^[1] In most cases, it is a transfer of blood between a non-human animal and a human. However, further experimentation has been done between various non-human animal species. This procedure can be performed without affecting the health of the donor, as only about 10% of their blood volume is used each time.^[2] Utilizing the unlimited blood supply from animal sources eliminates the risk of transmitting infectious diseases between humans.^[1]

In 1658, Dom Robert Desgabets, a French monk, introduced the idea of xenotransfusion at a scientific society meeting. This society later afforded the French Academy of Sciences.^[1] Some ethical issues have been identified by the Ethics Committee of the International Xenotransplantation Association (IXA).^[2] For example, the IXA sets standards and regulations for those planning to orchestrate clinical xenotransplantation trials.^[3] The IXA has identified three major ethical areas that require adequate attention: favorable risk and benefit assessment supported by pre-clinical data, lack of alternative treatment for participants, and minimizing the risk of infection by ensuring the highest biosafety regulations are followed for selected animal donors. These are just a few examples of the ethics behind xenotransplantation.