A transplant between different species is referred to as what?

A transplant between different species is referred to as a xenograft. This terminology is derived from the Greek word "xenos," meaning "foreign." In the context of transplantation, a xenograft involves the transfer of cells, tissues, or organs from one species to another, such as from a pig to a human. This type of grafting is particularly significant in medical research and transplant science because it provides insights into potential solutions for organ shortages and the challenge of immune rejection in transplant procedures.

The concept of xenografts is also important in the development and testing of medical treatments, as they can allow scientists to study disease processes and evaluate therapies in a living system that more closely mimics human physiology than traditional methods. Understanding the immunological and physiological differences between species is crucial when considering xenotransplantation, as successful integration and function of the transplanted material are significant challenges in this field.