Allotransplantation


Allotransplant is the transplantation of cells, tissues, or organs to a recipient from a genetically non-identical donor of the same species. The transplant is called an allograft, allogeneic transplant, or homograft. Most human tissue and organ transplants are allografts.
It is contrasted with autotransplantation, syngeneic transplantation of isografts and xenotransplantation.
Allografts can be referred to as "homostatic" if they are biologically inert when transplanted, such as bone and cartilage.
An immune response against an allograft or xenograft is termed rejection. An allogenic bone marrow transplant can result in an immune attack on the recipient, called graft-versus-host disease.

Procedure

Material is obtained from a donor who is a living person, or a deceased person's body receiving mechanical support or ventilation, or a deceased person's body whose heart stopped beating. Screening for pathology and risk factors for communicable diseases such as HIV and Hepatitis B and C is then conducted.
In the US, donor tissue must be recovered and processed adhering to the Current Good Tissue Practices rule. In most cases, it is sent to tissue banks for processing and distribution. Each year, Food and Drug Administration regulated and American Association of Tissue Banks-accredited tissue banks distribute 1.5 million bone and tissue allografts.

Transplantable organs and tissues

A variety of organs and tissues can be used for allografts, including:
In the US, the Federal government Food and Drug Administration has regulated human tissue intended for transplants since 1993. In order to ensure the quality of donor tissue and reduce contamination and disease transmission risks, three regulations addressing manufacturing activities associated with human cells, tissues, and cellular and tissue-based products were promulgated in May 2005: The first requires companies producing and distributing HCT/Ps to register with the FDA. The second, called the “Donor Eligibility” rule, proscribes criteria for donor eligibility. The third, the “Current Good Tissue Practices” rule, oversees overall processing and distribution practices of each company.

Other transplant options

As with many operations, allotransplantation also has some side effects. A limiting factor in tissue allotransplantation for reconstructive surgery deals with the side effects of immunosuppression which is a predominant issue. Also, it can not be forgotten that the risk of transmitting infection is very high.