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The immunobiology and clinical use of genetically engineered porcine hearts for cardiac xenotransplantation

Nature Cardiovascular Research volume 1, pages 715–726 (2022)Cite this article

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Abstract

A summary of the scientific rationale of the advancements that led to the first genetically modified pig-to-human cardiac xenotransplantation is lacking in a complex and rapidly evolving field. Here, we aim to aid the general readership in the understanding of the gradual progression of cardiac (xeno)transplantation research, the immunobiology of cardiac xenotransplantation (including the latest immunosuppression, cardiac preservation and genetic engineering required for successful transplantation) and the regulatory landscape related to the clinical application of cardiac xenotransplantation for people with end-stage heart failure. Finally, we provide an overview of the outcomes and lessons learned from the first genetically modified pig-to-human cardiac heart xenotransplantation.

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Fig. 1: Mechanisms of rejection in xenotransplantation.
Fig. 2: Mechanisms of action of immunomodulatory drugs and therapeutics in xenotransplantation.
Fig. 3: The immunobiology of cardiac xenotransplantation.

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  1. Department of Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA

    Corbin E. Goerlich, Avneesh K. Singh, Bartley P. Griffith & Muhammad M. Mohiuddin

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C. E. G., A. K. S, B. P. G. and M. M. M. wrote, critiqued and edited the manuscript. All authors approved the final draft prior to submission.

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Goerlich, C.E., Singh, A.K., Griffith, B.P. et al. The immunobiology and clinical use of genetically engineered porcine hearts for cardiac xenotransplantation. Nat Cardiovasc Res 1, 715–726 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1038/s44161-022-00112-x

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