Heterograft

/ˈhɛtərəˌɡræft/ noun

Definition

A tissue or organ transplant from one species to another, also called a xenograft.

Etymology

Combining 'hetero-' (different) and 'graft' (from Old French 'greffe'). This medical term emerged in the early 20th century as surgical techniques advanced and doctors experimented with cross-species transplants.

Kelly Says

Pig heart valves are the most famous heterografts in medicine—they work in human hearts because the valve structure is similar enough, even though we're different species!

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