What is the risk associated with the use of animals in xenotransplantation?

The risk associated with the use of animals in xenotransplantation primarily involves the welfare of the animals involved. This concern arises from the ethical implications of using live animals for organ harvesting and the potential for causing them pain, distress, or suffering during the process. In xenotransplantation, animals are often genetically modified and raised in controlled environments specifically for organ donation, which can lead to questions about their quality of life and the conditions in which they are kept.

While the other choices present valid considerations, they are less directly tied to the central ethical concern at the heart of xenotransplantation. For instance, the high cost of maintenance, shortage of suitable animals, and increased healthcare costs are practical aspects that researchers and healthcare providers must manage, but they do not encompass the fundamental ethical implications related to animal welfare in this context. Therefore, focusing on the welfare of the animals highlights a significant concern that influences both public perception and regulatory policies surrounding xenotransplantation.