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A novel method for transuterine identification of piglets
M M Birck1, T Iburg, M Schmidt
1Division of Laboratory Animal Science and Welfare, Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark. mbirck@life.ku.dk
Laboratory Animals
|July 16, 2008
Summary
Implantable microchips can identify porcine fetuses in utero, enabling unique animal identification for research. Postnatal assessment revealed no adverse effects, confirming the safety and reliability of this fetal microchip implantation method.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Science
- Animal Research Methodology
Background:
- Implantable microchips offer secure, permanent, and unique animal identification.
- Identifying individual fetuses within the same uterus in experimental animal models is crucial for reducing animal numbers and improving study design.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a protocol for in utero microchip implantation in porcine fetuses.
- To evaluate the clinical and pathological outcomes of microchip implantation in piglets postnatally.
Main Methods:
- Microchip implantation into the thigh muscle of porcine fetuses at day 100 of gestation via transuterine approach.
- Sows underwent sedation, anesthesia, and antibiotic/analgesia administration.
- Postnatal evaluation of piglets for physical reactions and histological examination of implantation sites.
Main Results:
- Successful implantation in porcine fetuses, resulting in 24 liveborn piglets.
- No limping or visible/palpable reactions on hindlegs observed in liveborn piglets.
- Histology revealed a mild foreign body granulomatous inflammatory response, with no significant muscle inflammation.
Conclusions:
- Transuterine microchip implantation is a feasible and reliable method for identifying porcine fetuses before birth.
- This technique provides effective individual identification for experimental animal studies.
- The procedure demonstrates a favorable safety profile with minimal adverse reactions.
