Xenotransplantation from the perspective of moral theology

Abstract

Background: Current medical research in the area of xenotransplantation is driven by the aim to save human lives and to improve the quality of life of those suffering from organ insufficiencies. Methods: This study reflects the therapeutic intent of xenotransplantation from a theological-ethical perspective. Regarding statements of Christian communities, the analysis focuses mainly on catholic documents. This study takes into account the document on Prospects for Xenotransplantation by the Pontifical Academy for Life as well as a position paper on xenotransplantation released as a collaboration between the German Bishops Conference (Catholic) and the Evangelical Church in Germany (Protestant). Documents of other Christian denominations will be discussed in a separate paper. Aspects concerning the areas of medicine, social ethics and animal ethics are considered as well as biographical, psychosocial, culture-bound and ideological preconditions of acceptability. These aspects also include consequences for the construction of personal identity. Results and Conclusion: With regard to an anthropocentrism that is based theologically and relationally, xenotransplantation-in generalcan be viewed as a permissible form of therapy, given that the principles of biomedical ethics will be observed and that animals are treated with respect.

Recent Progress in Xenotransplantation, with Emphasis on Virological Safety

“…Although not a topic of this review, it should be mentioned that theological-ethical [105][106][107] and regulatory aspects of xenotransplantation are being broadly discussed. The International Xenotransplantation Association [IXA] recently published the first update of a consensus paper dealing with different aspects of efficient and safe islet cell xenotransplantation [108][109][110][111][112][113][114][115].…”

Psychosocial challenges of xenotransplantation: the need for a multidisciplinary, religious, and cultural dialogue

“…Moral and ethical questions are important foundational concerns in xenotransplantation that have received significant attention. [2][3][4][5][6] However, future clinical trials need more discussion and exploration with regard to the practical psychosocial factors that may be of clinical importance to the transplant team. A search of the literature found <200 articles published between 2000 and 2015 that related to psychosocial components of xenotransplantation.…”

“…2,7,8,[11][12][13][14][15][16][17]24,25 A tentative profile has been built up about those groups who are more likely to support the procedure. 2,7,[12][13][14]17,24 Some reports found that the general public was more disposed toward this form of therapy than were hospital personnel, 8,14,15 an observation that is perhaps confusing and potentially problematic. There remains, however, a lack of information on the relationship between a patient's theological beliefs (including atheists) and his or her personal attitude toward xenotransplantation, particularly in regard to those who may be opposed to xenotransplantation.…”

The role of religious beliefs for the acceptance of xenotransplantation. Exploring dimensions of xenotransplantation in the field of hospital chaplaincy

“…They can affect one's own identity and self‐image and thus also affect religious dimensions. Hence, they make a comprehensive range of accompaniment necessary …”