Autologous
Definition
The term “autologous” refers to the source of cells or
tissue for transplantation purposes. Cells are autologous
when obtained from the same patient who is treated.
Hence, cells present the same surface molecules as the
recipient tissue and are not rejected by the immune system.
If cells are “allogeneic”, they derive from a genetically
different organism of the same species. Under this
condition, immune responses have to be suppressed by
appropriate medication. “Xenogeneic” transplantation
deals with tissues or cells from individuals that do not
belong to the same species. In humans, such experiments
are performed using porcine heart valves. In contrast,
“xenoplastic” grafts consist of synthetic substrates
such as bone replacement materials.

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