Introduction: After years of non-human primate research and a moratorium on xenotransplantation, recent advancements have reignited interest in the field. Previously, phrases like “xenotransplantation is the future and always will be” or “xenotransplantation will happen when pigs fly” were common. However, with developments in gene-editing technologies like CRISPR-Cas9, decedent experiments, several pig-to-human transplants in recent years, and forthcoming clinical trials, the landscape is changing. This study focuses on the people making all of this happen. It explores the future scenarios and potential envisioned by those working in xenotransplantation, and investigates the work, the network and the dedication driving xenotransplantation pioneers.
Methods: This anthropological study is based on semi-structured interviews with 19 US surgeons, researchers and nurses involved in xenotransplantation experiments and focus on their experiences and how they imagine xenotransplantation futures. Additionally, we included media material covering xenotransplantation in 2021-2024. The data were transcribed, and thematically analyzed. Using the concepts of “imaginaries” and “potentiality”, we analyze the perceived unlimited potential of pig organs, the articulated need for this technology, and the hopes and experiences of medical professionals.
Results: The findings provide insights into the personal hopes, dilemmas and professional aspirations of xenotransplantation surgeons, researchers and nurses. They envision a future where xenotransplantation treatments are available for patients with no options. Some imaginaries extend to fantasizing about tailored pigs bred for individual patients, eliminating the need for immunosuppression, and surpassing allotransplantation. Scenarios include pig organs delivered by drones to patients in need. However, questions arise about the practicalities and the accessibility of this technology: Will it be available to all, or only to a privileged few? As such, based on insights from the actual people dedicated to developing xenotransplantation, our research shed light on the ethical, organizational and practical implications of these highly innovative procedures.
Conclusion: This study provides valuable anthropological insights into the personal experiences, practical expertise, and medical dedication that drives and justify xenotransplantation experiments. It highlights the importance of considering the emotions and motives of clinical practitioners. As xenotransplantation progresses, it is crucial to balance the potential benefits of xenotransplantation with the ethical and practical challenges experienced in the clinic, ensuring that the technology serves humanity equitably. Most importantly, we argue for social science attention to the medical professionals involved as they represent a valuable source of knowledge for developing and improving the social, organizational, and practical aspects of xenotransplantation.