Bioethical implications of xenotransplantation: analysis of its challenges and ethical considerations in medicine today
Keywords:
BIENESTAR DEL ANIMAL; BIOÉTICA; TRASPLANTE DE ÓRGANOS; TRASPLANTE HETERÓLOGO., ANIMAL WELFARE; BIOETHICS; ORGAN TRANSPLANTATION; TRANSPLANTATION, HETEROLOGOUS., BEM-ESTAR ANIMAL; BIOÉTICA; TRANSPLANTE DE ÓRGÃOS; TRANSPLANTE HETERÓLOGO.Abstract
Introduction: the global shortage of organs for transplantation has driven research into xenotransplantation, an option that offers clinical benefits but also raises complex ethical dilemmas.
Objective: to examine the bioethical implications of xenotransplantation through the analysis of its scientific, social, and philosophical challenges in contemporary medicine.
Methods: a bibliographic review of the literature published between 2017 and 2024 was conducted, following the PRISMA methodology. Various databases were consulted using an algorithm, which allowed the identification of sources that, once inclusion and exclusion criteria were verified, enabled the selection of articles for critical analysis.
Development: animal organs, especially those from pigs, can be genetically modified to increase their compatibility with humans, reducing immune rejection. However, risks of zoonotic transmission remain, along with concerns about animal welfare, genetic manipulation, and environmental sustainability. Ethical debates are highlighted regarding informed consent, patient autonomy, and distributive justice in access to these technologies. Philosophical implications are also discussed, including human identity and transhumanism, considering the psychological and social impact of integrating animal organs into the human body.
Conclusions: xenotransplantation represents a promising alternative to the shortage of organs, but its implementation requires solid ethical frameworks. Regulation must ensure health safety, respect for animal welfare, and equity in access, integrating principles of global bioethics that harmonize scientific innovation with social and environmental responsibility.
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