Xenotransfusion (from Greek xenos- 'strange, foreign'), a form of xenotransplantation, was initially defined as the transfer of blood from one species into the veins of another.
[2] Utilizing the unlimited blood supply from animal sources eliminates the risk of transmitting infectious diseases between humans.
[1] In 1658, Dom Robert Desgabets, a French monk, introduced the idea of xenotransfusion at a scientific society meeting.
[2] For example, the IXA sets standards and regulations for those planning to orchestrate clinical xenotransplantation trials.
[3] The IXA has identified three major ethical areas that require adequate attention: favorable risk and benefit assessment supported by pre-clinical data, lack of alternative treatment for participants, and minimizing the risk of infection by ensuring the highest biosafety regulations are followed for selected animal donors.
[4] On June 15, 1667, Jean-Baptiste Denis, a French physician, and Paul Emmerez, a surgeon, performed the first documented xenotransfusion to humans.
[1][5] Carotid artery blood from the lamb was introduced to a vein in the patient's inner elbow, and the procedure ultimately resulted in a successful recovery.
After several xenotransfusion procedures, some successful some not, the French Parliament prohibited the practice of these transfusions in 1670.