Transplantation of a genetically modified porcine heart into a live human.

Following our previous experience with cardiac xenotransplantation of a genetically modified porcine heart into a live human, we sought to achieve improved results by selecting a healthier recipient and through more sensitive donor screening for potential zoonotic pathogens. Here we transplanted a 10-gene-edited pig heart into a 58-year-old man with progressive, debilitating inotrope-dependent heart failure due to ischemic cardiomyopathy who was not a candidate for standard advanced heart failure therapies. He was maintained on a costimulation (anti-CD40L, Tegoprubart) blockade-based immunomodulatory regimen.

Genetically engineered pig heart transplantation in non-human primates.

Background: Improvement in gene modifications of donor pigs has led to the prevention of early cardiac xenograft rejection and significantly prolonged cardiac xenograft survival in both heterotopic and orthotopic preclinical non-human primate (NHP) models. This progress formed the basis for FDA approval for compassionate use transplants in two patients.

Methods: Based on our earlier report of 9-month survival of seven gene-edited (7-GE) hearts transplanted (life-supporting orthotopic) in baboons, we transplanted 10 gene-edited pig hearts into baboons (n = 4) using non-ischemic continuous perfusion preservation (NICP) and immunosuppression regimen based on co-stimulation blockade by anti-CD40 monoclonal antibody.

A dosimetric evaluation of intensity modulated radiotherapy and three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy for prostate cancer in Ghana.

External beam radiotherapy incorporates treatment techniques such as three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3DCRT), intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), image-guided radiotherapy and volumetric modulated arc therapy to deliver high-energy radiation to cancer. The use of IMRT for cancer treatment is also associated with significant costs for patients in low-middle-income countries. The purpose of this study was to compare the dosimetric properties of 3DCRT and IMRT treatment plans for the external beam irradiation of patients with prostate cancer (Pca) to ascertain the superiority of IMRT in terms of dose homogeneity, conformity and dose limitation to organs at risk (OAR) in a resource-limited setting.

Expanding Access to Computed Tomographic Staging and Three-Dimensional Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy for Cervical Cancer in Ghana.

Purpose: To build capacity for improved treatment of locally advanced cervical cancer in Ghana, including computed tomography (CT) staging and intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT).

Materials And Methods: Patients with histologically confirmed cervical cancer were prospectively staged with abdominopelvic CT and ultrasound and offered the opportunity to have IMRT instead of conventional two-dimensional radiotherapy. The development of an efficient, high-quality, and safe IMRT program was facilitated by investment in new technology and comprehensive training of the interdisciplinary radiotherapy team in collaboration with a North American center of excellence.