Let the debate over animal 'organ factories' begin

Studies suggest it will be possible to grow human parts inside, perhaps, a pig

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A team led by the University of Tokyo is creating chimeras with rats and mice. (Photo courtesy of University of Tokyo Lecturer Satoshi Yamaguchi)

NORIAKI KOSHIKAWA, Nikkei staff writer

TOKYO The humble hog may be destined for a critical role in regenerative medicine -- provided researchers can work around a number of technological challenges and ethical qualms.

In January, a research team including members from the University of Tokyo cured a mouse of diabetes by transplanting a pancreas produced by a different type of mouse. The case gave rise to the possibility of creating "organ factories."

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