British transplant research endangered by the Human Tissue Act

For over 50 years, research has made an invaluable contribution to the remarkable success of clinical transplantation. Landmark scientific discoveries include the description, development and practical use of HLA tissue typing,1–3 understanding of the role of antibodies in hyperacute rejection4 and the use and application of immunosuppressive treatment to prevent graft rejection.5 6 Transplantation has saved thousands of lives. Immunosuppressive protocols are highly sophisticated and transplant outcomes are better now than they have ever been. However, complications occur and challenges remain. Transplant outcomes could still be better. Progress depends on continuing scientific study of factors in both donor and …