[Transgenic pigs for xenotransplants for humans].
Microinjection of foreign DNA is currently the only successful procedure to achieve gene transfer in farm animals, though at low efficiency (1-3% transgenic offspring). Integration of the transgene occurs random, expression is normally independent from the number of integrated copies, but can be affected by the site of integration. In most cases, the transgene is inherited according to the Mendelian rules. To achieve xenotransplantation complement regulating gene constructs have been integrated and expressed in transgenic pigs. Upon transfer of hearts from such transgenic pigs to primates the hyperacute rejection response was overcome and an average survival of approximately 40 days was obtained. It is expected that organs from transgenic pigs will be clinically available within the next 5 to 10 years after open questions in particular on the potential transmission of pathogens have been clarified.
Niemann
H
H
Institut für Tierzucht und Tierverhalten (FAL) Mariensee, Neustadt.
D000818:Animals; D030801:Animals, Genetically Modified / Q000235:genetics*; D005544:Forecasting; D018014:Gene Transfer Techniques / Q000639:trends*; D006084:Graft Rejection / Q000517:prevention & control; D006801:Humans; D013552:Swine / Q000235:genetics*; D014183:Transplantation, Heterologous / Q000639:trends