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Human stem cells successfully transplanted into pigs

(UK Independent / Worthy News)-- Scientists have successfully transplanted human stem cells into pigs that were especially genetically modified for the purpose. Once implanted, the cells thrived, leading the researchers to believe they are one step closer to finding treatments for a number of incapacitating human diseases.

One of the major hurdles in stem cell research is the rejection of transplanted cells by the hosts. The ability to ensure that pigs will accept human transplants is a major leap forward for research into stem cell therapy, and could aid in developing treatments for patients suffering from severe immune deficiency.

Research into the possibilities of regenerative medicine has previously relied heavily on rodents as test animals. However, significant differences between the immune systems of mice and those of humans has limited the applicability of the findings.

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