Abstract: The present invention relates to novel strains of pig that are highly suitable for xenotransplantation. The first novel pig strain lacks functional porcine endogenous retroviruses so is suitable as a donor for tissue and/or cell xenotransplantation into a human recipient. These pigs can also be used as a foundation pig for further manipulation, for example, by gene editing of xenoantigens to produce a second novel strain of pig that is not only free of infectious porcine retroviruses but is also free of the main xenoantigens responsible for hyperacute organ rejection. These pigs can be used for whole organ, tissue and/or cell transplantation into a human recipient.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a composition comprising high mannuronic acid-containing alginate and a polycation having a polydispersity index of less than 1.5. The composition is particularly useful for making biocompatible microcapsules containing living cells for allo- or xeno-transplantation. Such microcapsules have enhanced durability and can maintain their structural and functional integrity over long periods of time compared to prior art alginate microcapsules.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to the prevention or treatment of autoimmune diseases, and in particular, of type I diabetes, by administering a therapeutically effective amount of an implantable composition comprising living choroid plexus cells.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to the prevention or treatment of sensorineural hearing loss by administering a therapeutically effective amount of an implantable composition comprising encapsulated living choroid plexus cells.