What is xenotransplantation?

Xenotransplantation specifically refers to the transplantation of organs, tissues, or cells from one species to another, particularly from non-human animals to humans. This practice is considered a potential solution to the shortage of human organs available for transplantation. It involves using animal organs that have been genetically modified or selected to reduce the likelihood of rejection by the human immune system.

In the context of the other options provided: transplantation of human organs into animals does not align with the definition of xenotransplantation; instead, it refers more to research or experimentation in organ development. The transplantation of tissues between identical twins is classified as autologous transplantation, where donor and recipient are the same individual—this does not involve species differences. Lastly, transplantation of synthetic organs, such as those made from biocompatible materials or grown in labs, falls under a different category and is not related to xenotransplantation. Thus, the correct understanding of xenotransplantation is clearly aligned with the transfer of non-human organs into humans.