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Updated: Jun 5, 2026

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A Pre-Clinical Porcine Model of Orthotopic Heart Transplantation
Published on: April 27, 2019
The representative porcine model for human cardiovascular disease
Yoriyasu Suzuki1, Alan C Yeung, Fumiaki Ikeno
1Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Nagoya Heart Center, 461-0045 Aichi, Japan.
Journal of Biomedicine & Biotechnology
|January 22, 2011
Summary
Translating scientific discoveries into health improvements requires preclinical testing. Large animal models, particularly porcine models, are crucial for bridging the gap between small animal research and human clinical applications.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical research
- Translational science
- Preclinical studies
Background:
- Scientific discoveries require translation to improve human health.
- Preclinical testing using animal models is essential for technology development.
- Small animal models offer molecular insights but differ significantly from humans in cardiovascular characteristics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the necessity of large animal models in preclinical research.
- To provide an overview of commonly used large animal models.
- To emphasize the specific utility of porcine models in preclinical studies.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on animal models for preclinical research.
- Comparative analysis of cardiovascular characteristics between small and large animal models and humans.
- Focus on the application of porcine models in translational studies.
Main Results:
- Small animal models have limitations in replicating human cardiovascular physiology.
- Large animal models exhibit greater physiological similarity to humans, aiding translation.
- Porcine models are frequently utilized and well-suited for various preclinical investigations.
Conclusions:
- Large animal models are indispensable for advancing discoveries from basic science to clinical therapies.
- Porcine models represent a valuable tool for preclinical testing, facilitating the development of human interventions.
- Effective preclinical strategies necessitate the judicious selection of appropriate animal models.

