Transplantation proceedings
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There are 3 major obstacles to performing transplantations from pig to human. They are as follows: a powerful immune barrier, a potential risk for transmitting microorganisms, particularly endogenous retrovirus from animal-to-human, and ethical issues related to patients and society at large. ⋯ Donation from deceased or live human beings will become obsolete. Furthermore, it will be possible to alleviate graft rejection by genetic modification of the source animal.
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In a developing country such as India, cadaveric renal transplantation accounts for only less than 1% of total renal transplantations. The reasons for such a low rate of cadaveric transplantation are many, ranging from lack of awareness to socioeconomic reasons. Our institute conducted a statewide public awareness program and initiated an intercity organ harvesting program. ⋯ Mean serum creatinine value at the last follow-up was 1.2 +/- 0.3 mg%. There were 5 episodes of acute rejection in 31 patients during first 3 months (16% acute rejection rate). The increase in cadaveric transplantations was associated with satisfactory patient and graft survival despite the high incidence of delayed graft function.