Other researchers have transplanted or scheduled trials involving the transplantation of pig pancreas cells into diabetics in hopes of helping them produce their own insulin. At one time, insulin used by humans to control their disease came from pigs. One of the big reasons why xenotransplantation may become a necessary therapy is the vast numbers of people in need of life-saving organs. About 15 people die every day in the United States while waiting on an organ donation list. Pig organs are the most likely source because anatomically they are similar to human organs, and there is virtually an unlimited supply.
Pigs produce large litters in a little more than three months, and the animals mature quickly.
Non-human primates such as chimpanzees and baboons are not likely to provide organs for people because they take longer to raise, and some are considered endangered. As close relatives to humans, they also harbor viruses that could easily be transmitted to people. Former Wisconsin Gov. Tommy G. Thompson, as secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, oversees those agencies. Thompson now has an 18-member group, the Secretary's Advisory Committee on Xenotransplantation, helping him with that responsibility. The committee had its first meeting in February.