Affiliation:
1. Institute for Cell Transplantation and Gene Therapy The 3rd Xiangya Hospital of Central South University Changsha China
2. Engineering and Technology Research Center for Xenotransplantation of Human Province Changsha China
Abstract
AbstractBackgroundXenotransplantation is a potential way to reduce the shortage of the needed organ grafts for the end‐stage disease. Immune rejection, physiological incompatibility and bio‐safety are the most critical issues.MethodsTo ensure the safety and efficacy of gene editing, second‐ and third‐generation sequencing technologies have allowed us to obtain a clearer genetic background of donor pigs for xenotransplantation. Based on the Changsha Communiqué, the local DPF‐ excluded lists and DPF donor facility were established in Changsha, China. A pig‐to‐human islet clinical trial was conducted and overseen by the respective Chinese governmental agency.ResultsThe DPF standards for pig husbandry eliminated specific pathogens in donor pigs. We have established a PERV‐C free, genetic information clean, DPF donor for xenotransplantation. A clinical trial of ten adult patients (9M:1F) with type 1 diabetes who received DPF porcine islet xenotransplantation via the portal vein were performed. Clinical accepted immunosuppressant drugs and autologous Treg were used for controlling immune rejection. No cross‐species infection events occurred in this trial, and importantly, no cross‐species transmission of PERV was found.ConclusionsXenotransplantation is a pioneer study and safety is the most important issue. The fundamental principles for establishing xenotransplantation donor pigs should follow the Changsha Communiqué (2008), the second WHO consultation,and the 2018 Changsha Communiqué which would finally help reducing the risks of xenotransplantation.