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How are they made? What technology is used to make them?

What are genetically engineered organs?

  • Artificially created organs made in a laboratory
  • May be used for transplantation or research
  • Created using "seed and scaffold" method which involves implanting cells from the recipient to the "scaffold" of the necessary organ made from a polymer that is perforated to provide space for human cells to grow
  • Also grown on or inside of other animals, normally pigs or mice (ears for cosmetic purposes being grown on hairless mice)

History of GEOs

PSA

  • The research is modern
  • No records of "artificial" organs created before the 21st century other than rudimental prosthetic limbs
  • First synthetic implants used in humans were lab grown bladders implanted in children with spina bifida (2004-2077 by team of researchers led by Anthony Atala)

Genetically Engineered Organs

Abigail Korenek

Examples of GEOs

Benefits and Risks

  • Bioartificial organs may be used to replace organs that would need to be harvested from donors
  • Can reduce need to harvest organs
  • Rejection is nearly impossible if recipient's cells are used
  • Bioartificial organs may be more expensive
  • Extensive research and testing is needed to determine safety and effectiveness
  • Common implants include synthetic tracheal implants and urethral implants
  • The tracheal implants were designed by a team in Switzerland and utilized in surgery by Paolo Macchiarini
  • Both implants are used to repair congenital defects, organs damaged by trauma, or cancerous organs
  • The most successful synthetic organs are "conduit organs" (organs that act as channel for substances to flow through)
  • Researchers are also working to create bioartificial hearts using the seed and scaffold method; results are promising but not advanced enough for routine usage

Who should regulate this?

My Opinion (From an Attorney's POV)

  • FDA (Food and Drug Association)
  • NIH (National Institutes of Health)
  • AHRQ (Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality)

While this research is groundbreaking

and has a lot of potential, there are possible legal problems. Patients who receive the treatments may become publicized, and patient confidentiality must be protected. Since the procedure is modern, there may be unforeseen problems which may give rise to legal battles over patient's health in the future. Overall, I support the idea, but lots of research and testing needs to be completed.

Sources

  • http://www.organdonor.gov/legislation/
  • http://www.technologyreview.com/news/424621/first-fully-synthetic-organ-transplant-saves-cancer-patient/
  • http://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2014/09/the-built-from-scratch-heart/379854/