Thymus[edit]
An implantable machine that performs the function of a thymus does not exist. However, researchers have been able to grow a thymus from reprogrammed fibroblasts. They expressed hope that the approach could one day replace or supplement neonatal thymus transplantation.[41]
As of 2017, researchers at UCLA developed an artificial thymus that, although not yet implantable, is capable of performing all functions of a true thymus.[42]
The artificial thymus would play an important role in the immune system, it would use blood stem cells to produce more T cells, which would help the body fight infections, it would also grant the body the ability to eliminate cancer cells. Since when people become old, their thymus don't work well, an artificial thymus would be a good choice to replace an old, not-functioning-well thymus.
The idea of using T cells to fight against infections has been around for a time, but until recently, the idea of using a T cell source, an artificial thymus is proposed. “We know that the key to creating a consistent and safe supply of cancer-fighting T cells would be to control the process in a way that deactivates all T cell receptors in the transplanted cells, except for the cancer-fighting receptors,” said Dr. Gay Crooks of UCLA.[43] The scientist also found that the T cells produced by the artificial thymus carried a diverse range of T cell receptors and worked similarly to the T cells produced by a normal thymus. Since they can work like human thymus, artificial thymus can supply a consistent amount of T cells to the body for the patients who are in need of treatments.
Testes[edit]
Men whom have sustained testicular abnormalities through birth defects or injury have been able to replace the damaged testicle with a testicular prosthesis.[39] Although the prosthetic does not restore biological reproductive function, the device has been shown to improve mental health for these patients.[40]
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artificial_organ
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