Experimental Models in Penile Transplantation: Translational Insights and Relevance to Clinical Application

Abstract

Animal research is an essential contributor to the medical achievements of the last century. The first step of studying a disease in animals is the development of a model which is relevant to the clinical situation in humans. Thus, a good animal model is the sine qua non of the experimental research. This review aims to assess the contemporary literature on animal models for penile transplantation, examining their applicability and significance in the context of clinical scenarios. We also revisit, evaluate, and emphasize the interesting and important findings of certain animal models to bring the reader up to date from the perspective of allotransplantation. Their current and future clinical applicability and feasibility have been discussed, shedding light on worldwide experience in Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation (VCA).