Can minipigs be used for toxicity testing?
Research in animals has contributed to nearly every medical advance over the past years. However, growing needs for toxicity testing make scientists think about replacement, refinement and reduction of animal testing. Legislation also places greater emphasis on developing alternative approaches in safety evaluation. The pig closely resembles man in many features of its anatomy, biochemistry and physiology. In particular, the cardiovascular system, skin and digestive tract of the pig are very similar to those of humans, thus suggesting that it would be a very good model for chemical and drug testing. Minipigs, special strains of pigs that are markedly smaller than farmyard varieties, are increasingly being used in biomedical research as they are easy to keep and handle. The project 'Minipigs as models for the toxicity testing of new medicines and chemicals: impact assessment' (Rethink) brought together leading European experts to provide assessment on the use of minipigs as tools for regulatory toxicity screening. The project members evaluated the animal welfare, ethics and safety issues regarding the use of minipigs. These were considered alongside emerging technologies, comparative value of minipigs as models for product development and their economic impact. The consortium produced an Impact Assessment Report presenting their conclusions and recommendations, and emphasising any gaps in basic and technical knowledge that may present obstacles to the use of minipigs. The report, which was disseminated in many scientific meetings, shows that minipigs are very good alternatives to primates and dogs for toxicity screening.
