Researchers reveal controversial experiments to grow part-animal organs for transplants

Scientists around the world are experimenting with techniques that could one day grow human organs inside of pigs and sheep. This controversial branch of research holds potential to save hundreds of lives each year among patients awaiting transplants, but many scientists are divided over the ethical implications. Despite a temporary ban on funding for these projects in the US, some researchers have been able to continue their work, implanting human stem cells into animal embryos. Scientists are experimenting with techniques that could one day grow human organs inside of pigs and sheep. To grow a human organ in an animal embryo, a researcher from the University of California, Davis uses new gene-editing techniques, according to NPR.