Pig organs can be transplanted into the human body

With the new method of gene editing, pig organs can be transplanted into the human body at any one time, according to some scientists. (Getty)

In this study, Professor George Church and his team used a technique called CRISPR, to manipulate DNA in pig cells making it more 'fit' and can be transplanted into the human body.



Currently the scientists are still searching for a solution to fears of rejection of donor-recipient human body, as well as the follow-borne viral infection of pig DNA.

If successful, this research will be the answer to a deficit of human donor organs.

However, it is necessary to study the next few years, before genetically modified pigs, can be bred as organ supplier for humans.

Editing Gen

CRISPR is a new scientific tool that makes scientists can 'cutting' and 'tinkering' with DNA.

This method has been used Church, who came from Harvard University, to inactivate porcine retrovirus on pig cells, which claimed to be harmful to humans.

Science Photo Library

"With the removal of a retrovirus, meaning the road to transplant animal organs into humans or xenotransplantation, more wide open," said Church.

However, Dr. Sarah Chan, a researcher from the University of Edinburgh, said, "Although the future scientific and safety issues can be resolved, it will be a lot of impact and social reactions related transplant pig organs in the human body".

Moreover, the mammal is prohibited by some religions.

"Clearly, the results of this study is very meaningful, be a proof of principle that there is a potential solution to the problem of organ donors in the future," said Chan.

(bbcindonesia)