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[Current progress of research and use of microminipigs in drug development]

Kazuichi Nakamura1, Masayoshi Otake2

  • 1Laboratory of Toxicology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Kitasato University.

Nihon Yakurigaku Zasshi. Folia Pharmacologica Japonica
|October 10, 2018
PubMed

Insights

The microminipig is a valuable animal model for drug development, offering advantages in handling and cost-effectiveness. Its similarities to humans make it suitable for toxicokinetic and safety pharmacology studies.

Area of Science:

  • Pharmacology and Toxicology
  • Animal Models in Drug Development

Background:

  • Minipigs are increasingly utilized in pharmaceutical research and drug development.
  • The microminipig, a specific strain, exhibits human-like anatomical and physiological traits, alongside practical advantages due to its small size.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the utility of the microminipig as an animal model in various stages of drug development.
  • To outline the specific applications and limitations of the microminipig in preclinical research.

Main Methods:

  • Characterization of microminipig physiology, anatomy, and genetics (Swine Leukocyte Antigens - SLA).
  • Evaluation of microminipig suitability for toxicokinetic, safety pharmacology, immunotoxicity, and reproductive studies.

Main Results:

  • Microminipigs share significant similarities with humans in metabolic enzymes and transporters, crucial for toxicokinetic studies.
  • Their small size facilitates easier handling, dosing, and reduces the cost of test substances.
  • While not ideal for antibody drug embryo-fetal development studies due to poor placental transfer, they are suitable for other reproductive studies.

Conclusions:

  • The microminipig is a powerful and cost-effective animal model for pharmacology and drug development, particularly for toxicokinetic and safety pharmacology.
  • Its defined Swine Leukocyte Antigens (SLA) are beneficial for immunological assessments.
  • Further research can explore its application in repeat dose toxicity, immunotoxicity, and local tolerance studies.

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