Transplantation 50 years later - Progress, challenges, and promises

A half-century has elapsed since the first organ transplantation, and this procedure is now accepted as the treatment of choice for end-stage organ failure. Although tremendous progress has contributed to the success of this therapy, several challenges remain if transplantation is to be widely available with minimal risks and optimal outcomes. Recent advances in the science of organ and cell transplantation provide hope that a variety of chronic diseases will ultimately be cured.