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Salian-Mehta S, Smith JD, Flandre TD, Lambert AL, Lane JH, Stokes AH, Orsted K, Bratcher-Petersen NA, Janardhan KS, Tonkin EG. Recovery Animals in Toxicology Studies: An Innovation and Quality Consortium Perspective on Best Practices With Case Study Examples. Int J Toxicol 2024:10915818241243350. [PMID: 38606470 DOI: 10.1177/10915818241243350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
The inclusion of recovery animals in nonclinical safety studies that support clinical trials is undertaken with a wide diversity of approaches even while operating under harmonized regulatory guidance. While empirical evaluation of reversibility may enhance the overall nonclinical risk assessment, there are often overlooked opportunities to reduce recovery animal use by leveraging robust scientific and regulatory information. In the past, there were several attempts to benchmark recovery practices; however, recommendations have not been consistently applied across the pharmaceutical industry. A working group (WG) sponsored by the 3Rs Translational and Predictive Sciences Leadership Group of the IQ Consortium conducted a survey of current industry practice related to the evaluation of reversibility/recovery in repeat dose toxicity studies. Discussion among the WG representatives included member company strategies and case studies that highlight challenges and opportunities for continuous refinements in the use of recovery animals. The case studies presented in this paper demonstrate increasing alignment with the Society of Toxicologic Pathology recommendations (2013) towards (1) excluding recovery phase cohorts by default (include only when scientifically justified), (2) minimizing the number of recovery groups (e.g., control and one dose level), and (3) excluding controls in the recovery cohort by leveraging external and/or dosing phase data. Recovery group exclusion and decisions regarding the timing of reversibility evaluation may be driven by indication, modality, and/or other scientific or strategic factors using a weight of evidence approach. The results and recommendations discussed present opportunities to further decrease animal use without impacting the quality of human risk assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - James D Smith
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma Inc, Ridgefield, CT, USA
| | | | - Amy L Lambert
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Zürich, Switzerland
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Gong T, Mu Q, Xu Y, Wang W, Meng L, Feng X, Liu W, Ao Z, Zhang Y, Chen X, Xu H. Expression of the umami taste receptor T1R1/T1R3 in porcine testis of: Function in regulating testosterone synthesis and autophagy in Leydig cells. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2024; 236:106429. [PMID: 38035949 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2023.106429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Testosterone is a vital male hormone responsible for male sexual characteristics. The taste receptor family 1 subunit 3 (T1R3) regulates testosterone synthesis and autophagy in non-taste cells, and the links with the taste receptor family 1 subunit 1 (T1R1) for umami perception. However, little is known about these mechanisms. Thus, we aimed to determine the relationship between the umami taste receptor (T1R1/T1R3) and testosterone synthesis or autophagy in testicular Leydig cells of the Xiang pig. There was a certain proportion of spermatogenic tubular dysplasia in the Xiang pig at puberty, in which autophagy was enhanced, and the testosterone level was increased with a weak expression of T1R3. Silenced T1R3 decreased testosterone level and intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) content and inhibited the messenger RNA (mRNA) expression levels of testosterone synthesis enzyme genes [steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), hydroxy-delta-5-steroid dehydrogenase, 3 beta- and steroid delta-isomerase 1 (3β-HSD1), cytochrome P450 family 17 subfamily A member 1 (CYP17A1) and hydroxysteroid 17-beta dehydrogenase 3 (17β-HSD3)]. In addition, T1R3 increased the number of acidic autophagy bubbles and upregulated the expression levels of autophagy markers [Microtubule-associated protein 1 A/1B-light chain 3 (LC3) and Beclin-1] in testicular Leydig cells of the Xiang pig. Using an umami tasting agonist (10 mM L-glutamate for 6 h), the activation of T1R1/T1R3 enhanced the testosterone synthesis ability by increasing the intracellular cAMP level and upregulated the expression levels of StAR, 3β-HSD1, CYP17A1 and 17β-HSD3 in Leydig cells. Furthermore, the number of acidic autophagy bubbles decreased in the T1R1/T1R3-activated group with the downregulation of the expression levels of the autophagy markers, including LC3 and Beclin-1. These data suggest that the function of T1R1/T1R3 expressed in testicular Leydig cells of the Xiang pig is related to testosterone synthesis and autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Gong
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in The Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, PR China; Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, PR China; College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, PR China.
| | - Qi Mu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in The Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, PR China; Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, PR China; College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, PR China
| | - Yongjian Xu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in The Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, PR China; Qiannan Buyi and Miao Autonomous Prefecture Bureau of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, PR China
| | - Weiyong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in The Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, PR China; Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, PR China; College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, PR China
| | - Lijie Meng
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in The Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, PR China; Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, PR China; College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, PR China
| | - Xianzhou Feng
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in The Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, PR China; Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, PR China; College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, PR China
| | - Wenjiao Liu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in The Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, PR China; Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, PR China; College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, PR China
| | - Zheng Ao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in The Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, PR China; Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, PR China; College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, PR China
| | - Yiyu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in The Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, PR China; Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, PR China; College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, PR China
| | - Xiang Chen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in The Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, PR China; Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, PR China; College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, PR China
| | - Houqiang Xu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in The Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, PR China; Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, PR China; College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, PR China
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Eddy EP, Shet MS, Cataldo M, Grob D, Bhaskar S. Evaluation of dermal toxicity and toxicokinetics of povidone‑iodine in Göttingen minipigs. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2024; 482:116783. [PMID: 38061611 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2023.116783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Povidone‑iodine (PVP-I) is an effective and commonly used broad-spectrum antiseptic; limited information exists around its long-term safety and impact on endocrine disruption. We assessed the dermal toxicity and toxicokinetics following a once-daily application of 7.5% (w/v) and 10% (w/v) PVP-I in Göttingen Minipigs® for up to 39 weeks. METHODS An in vivo study was conducted in male (n = 27) and female (n = 27) minipigs. Animals were randomized into untreated control, 7.5% and 10% PVP-I, and matching vehicle treatment groups. Animals were assessed for general in-life measurements, including skin irritation and organ weights. Serum samples were analyzed for PVP, total iodine, triiodothyronine [T3], thyroxine [T4], thyroid stimulating hormone [TSH], and toxicokinetic parameters. RESULTS Neither 7.5% nor 10% PVP-I affected general in-life measurements. Increased mean thyroid gland absolute weights were noted with 7.5% and 10% PVP-I. Serum levels of PVP, T3, T4, and TSH in the 7.5% and 10% PVP-I treatment group animals were similar to those in vehicle treatment group animals. Mean total serum iodine concentration was 52- and 13-fold higher with 7.5% and 10% PVP-I, respectively, vs respective vehicle treatments. There was no dose-dependent increase in mean maximum serum concentration and area under the curve from 0 to 24 h for PVP, T3, T4, and TSH, nor accumulation of PVP, T3, T4, or TSH in the study. CONCLUSION Once-daily dermal application of 7.5% and 10% PVP-I for up to 39 weeks was safe and well tolerated in Göttingen Minipigs® and was not associated with skin irritation, thyroid dysfunction, or endocrine disruption. As the anatomy and physiology of the minipig skin closely resembles that of human skin, the findings of this study suggest that 7.5% and 10% PVP-I may be translated into antimicrobial benefits for humans without the risk of endocrine disruption.
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Shatokhin KS. Problems of mini-pig breeding. Vavilovskii Zhurnal Genet Selektsii 2021; 25:284-291. [PMID: 34901725 PMCID: PMC8627873 DOI: 10.18699/vj21.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
This article provides an overview of some problems of the breeding and reproduction of laboratory minipigs. The most obvious of these are the lack of centralized accounting of breeding groups, uniform selection standards
for reproduction and evaluation of breeding animals, as well as minimizing the accumulation of fitness-reducing
mutations and maintaining genetic diversity. According to the latest estimates, there are at least 30 breeding groups
of mini-pigs systematically used as laboratory animals in the world. Among them, there are both breed formations
represented by several colonies, and breeding groups consisting of a single herd. It was shown that the main selection
strategy is selection for the live weight of adults of 50–80 kg and the adaptation of animals to a specific type of biomedical experiments. For its implementation in the breeding of foreign mini-pigs, selection by live weight is practiced
at 140- and 154-day-old age. It was indicated that different herds of mini-pigs have their own breeding methods to
counteract inbred depression and maintain genetic diversity. Examples are the maximization of coat color phenotypes, the cyclical system of matching parent pairs, and the structuring of herds into subpopulations. In addition,
in the breeding of foreign mini-pigs, molecular genetic methods are used to monitor heterozygosity. Every effort is
made to keep the number of inbred crosses in the breeding of laboratory mini-pigs to a minimum, which is not always
possible due to their small number. It is estimated that to avoid close inbreeding, the number of breeding groups
should be at least 28 individuals, including boars of at least 4 genealogical lines and at least 4 families of sows. The
accumulation of genetic cargo in herds of mini-pigs takes place, but the harmful effect is rather the result of erroneous
decisions of breeders. Despite the fact that when breeding a number of mini-pigs, the goal was to complete the herds
with exclusively white animals, in most breeding groups there is a polymorphism in the phenotype of the coat color
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Affiliation(s)
- K S Shatokhin
- Novosibirsk State Agrarian University, Novosibirsk, Russia
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5
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Bergen WG. Pigs (Sus Scrofa) in Biomedical Research. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1354:335-343. [PMID: 34807450 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-85686-1_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Much of biomedical oriented research is conducted with animal models. Over the years, rodents (primarily rats and mice) have emerged as the preferred species for basic biochemistry, cell biology, physiology and nutrition studies. In the past, dogs have been used for the evaluation of dietary protein quality and other aspects of animal nitrogen metabolism and physiology, cardiovascular and endocrine research. At an increasing rate, pigs have also been used as a model species in biomedical research. Pigs are readily available in various mature sizes and genotypic/phenotypic traits, and there are many anatomic, nutritional and physiologic similarities between human beings and pigs. Many notable reviews summarizing the role of pigs in biomedical studies have already been published and these are cited below. The present review focuses on characteristics that make pigs an excellent biomedical animal model in particular in obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular research. To procure an animal model for obesity, irrespective of species used, these animals must be fed a dense caloric diet (high fat) to achieve an experimental working model within a reasonable period. This review also focuses on a putative role of gastrointestinal microbiota in obesity as obese animals exhibit a shift in the distribution of gastrointestinal microbial phyla from lean animals. But to date such results have not pinpointed a treatable cause for obesity. Sometimes, the choice of sampling sites for microbial assessment in many reports can be questioned as the microbial content and phyla distribution in easily collected fecal samples may differ from those obtained directly from the small intestine and upper colon. While pigs are still utilized in many countries for medical surgery practice, this has been discontinued in US medical schools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Werner G Bergen
- Department of Animal Sciences, Auburn University, AL, Auburn, 210 Upchurch Hall, 36854, USA.
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Pardo ID, Manno RA, Capobianco R, Sargeant AM, Morrison JP, Bolon B, Garman RH. Nervous System Sampling for General Toxicity and Neurotoxicity Studies in the Laboratory Minipig With Emphasis on the Göttingen Minipig. Toxicol Pathol 2021; 49:1140-1163. [PMID: 34423710 DOI: 10.1177/01926233211019941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The use of minipigs as an alternative nonclinical species has increased in the last 20 years. The Society of Toxicologic Pathology (STP) has produced generic "best practice" recommendations for nervous system sampling in nonrodents during general toxicity studies (Toxicol Pathol 41[7]: 1028-1048, 2013), but their adaptation to the minipig has not been attempted. Here, we describe 2 trimming schemes suitable for evaluating the unique neuroanatomic features of the minipig brain in nonclinical toxicity studies. The first scheme is intended for general toxicity studies (Tier 1) to screen agents with unknown or no anticipated neurotoxic potential; this approach using 7 coronal hemisections accords with the published STP "best practice" recommendations. The second trimming scheme for neurotoxicity studies (Tier 2) uses 14 coronal hemisections and 2 full coronal sections to investigate toxicants where the nervous system is a suspected or known target organ. Collection of spinal cord, ganglia (somatic and autonomic), and nerves from minipigs during nonclinical studies should follow published STP "best practice" recommendations for sampling the central (CNS, Toxicol Pathol 41[7]: 1028-1048, 2013) and peripheral (PNS, Toxicol Pathol 46[4]: 372-402, 2018) nervous systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid D Pardo
- Pfizer, Inc, Global Pathology and Investigative Toxicology, Groton, CT, USA
| | - Rosa A Manno
- Pathology Science, ERBC Group, Pomezia (RM), Italy
| | - Raffaella Capobianco
- 426218Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson, Janssen Research & Development, Nonclinical Safety, Beerse, Belgium
| | | | | | | | - Robert H Garman
- Consultants in Veterinary Pathology, Inc, Murrysville, PA, USA
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Skydsgaard M, Dincer Z, Haschek WM, Helke K, Jacob B, Jacobsen B, Jeppesen G, Kato A, Kawaguchi H, McKeag S, Nelson K, Rittinghausen S, Schaudien D, Vemireddi V, Wojcinski ZW. International Harmonization of Nomenclature and Diagnostic Criteria (INHAND): Nonproliferative and Proliferative Lesions of the Minipig. Toxicol Pathol 2021; 49:110-228. [PMID: 33393872 DOI: 10.1177/0192623320975373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The INHAND (International Harmonization of Nomenclature and Diagnostic Criteria for Lesions) Project (www.toxpath.org/inhand.asp) is a joint initiative of the Societies of Toxicologic Pathology from Europe (ESTP), Great Britain (BSTP), Japan (JSTP), and North America (STP) to develop an internationally accepted nomenclature for proliferative and nonproliferative lesions in laboratory animals. The purpose of this publication is to provide a standardized nomenclature for classifying microscopic lesions observed in most tissues and organs from the minipig used in nonclinical safety studies. Some of the lesions are illustrated by color photomicrographs. The standardized nomenclature presented in this document is also available electronically on the internet (http://www.goreni.org/). Sources of material included histopathology databases from government, academia, and industrial laboratories throughout the world. Content includes spontaneous lesions as well as lesions induced by exposure to test materials. Relevant infectious and parasitic lesions are included as well. A widely accepted and utilized international harmonization of nomenclature for lesions in laboratory animals will provide a common language among regulatory and scientific research organizations in different countries and increase and enrich international exchanges of information among toxicologists and pathologists.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zuhal Dincer
- Pathology Department, Covance Laboratories Limited, Harrogate, United Kingdom
| | - Wanda M Haschek
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Kris Helke
- Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | | | - Bjoern Jacobsen
- Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Gitte Jeppesen
- Charles River Laboratories Copenhagen, Lille Skensved, Denmark
| | - Atsuhiko Kato
- Chugai Pharmaceutical Co, Ltd Research Division, Shizuoka, Japan
| | | | - Sean McKeag
- Pathology Department, Covance Laboratories Limited, Harrogate, United Kingdom
| | | | - Susanne Rittinghausen
- Fraunhofer Institute for Toxicology and Experimental Medicine ITEM, Hannover, Germany
| | - Dirk Schaudien
- Fraunhofer Institute for Toxicology and Experimental Medicine ITEM, Hannover, Germany
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8
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Contreras-Ortiz AJ, Vigueras RM, Mendoza-Elvira SE, Martínez-Castañeda FE, Gutiérrez-Pérez O, Trujillo-Ortega ME. Postnatal testicular development in Vietnamese pot-bellied pigs. Acta Histochem 2021; 123:151741. [PMID: 34197981 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2021.151741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The Vietnamese pot-bellied pig is a breed with high investigation potential. However, at the reproductive level, its testicular characteristics are still unknown, as well as the different stages of its development. Therefore, the objective of this work is to describe the postnatal testicular development of Vietnamese pot-bellied pigs. In this study, we used pigs grouped into the neonatal stage, animals at zero weeks; prepubertal stage, animals at three and eight weeks; pubertal stage, animals at twelve and sixteen weeks; and postpubertal stage animals at twenty, twenty-four, twenty-eight and thirty-two weeks of age. The neonatal stage is characterized by gonocytes at different migration phases. In the prepubertal stage, gonocytes were differentiated into spermatogonia at 3 weeks of age, and the first spermatocytes were observed at 7 weeks of age. Puberty was determined to start at 12 weeks because seminiferous tubules are found with complete spermatogenesis and the highest peaks in positive cell counting of androgen receptors (AR) and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) factor that later decreased and further stabilized in the following weeks. In the postpubertal stage, an increase in seminiferous tubule areas was observed. The number of apoptotic cells ranged from low to null at all ages. Testosterone (T) and gonadotropin levels had two important peaks at 3 and 24 weeks. The seminiferous epithelium cycle was found to have 11 stages according to acrosome development. These characteristics of Vietnamese pot-bellied pig testes, which are different from rat testes and more similar to human testicles, make them a viable model to study human male reproductive biology. The postnatal testicular development of pot-bellied pigs is different from the postnatal testicular development of other breeds. Therefore, due to this difference in size and easy manipulation, the Vietnamese pig is an alternative for investigation compared to other pig breeds.
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9
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McCracken JM, Calderon GA, Robinson AJ, Sullivan CN, Cosgriff-Hernandez E, Hakim JCE. Animal Models and Alternatives in Vaginal Research: a Comparative Review. Reprod Sci 2021; 28:1759-1773. [PMID: 33825165 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00529-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
While developments in gynecologic health research continue advancing, relatively few groups specifically focus on vaginal tissue research for areas like wound healing, device development, and/or drug toxicity. Currently, there is no standardized animal or tissue model that mimics the full complexity of the human vagina. Certain practical factors such as appropriate size and anatomy, costs, and tissue environment vary across species and moreover fail to emulate all aspects of the human vagina. Thus, investigators are tasked with compromising specific properties of the vaginal environment as it relates to human physiology to suit their particular scientific question. Our review aims to facilitate the appropriate selection of a model aptly addressing a particular study by discussing pertinent vaginal characteristics of conventional animal and tissue models. In this review, we first cover common laboratory animals studied in vaginal research-mouse, rat, rabbit, minipig, and sheep-as well as human, with respect to the estrus cycle and related hormones, basic reproductive anatomy, the composition of vaginal layers, developmental epithelial origin, and microflora. In light of these relevant comparative metrics, we discuss potential selection criteria for choosing an appropriate animal vaginal model. Finally, we allude to the exciting prospects of increasing biomimicry for in vitro applications to provide a framework for investigators to model, interpret, and predict human vaginal health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer M McCracken
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Gisele A Calderon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Andrew J Robinson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Courtney N Sullivan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | | | - Julie C E Hakim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA. .,Department of Pediatric Surgery, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
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10
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Helke KL, Meyerholz DK, Beck AP, Burrough ER, Derscheid RJ, Löhr C, McInnes EF, Scudamore CL, Brayton CF. Research Relevant Background Lesions and Conditions: Ferrets, Dogs, Swine, Sheep, and Goats. ILAR J 2021; 62:133-168. [PMID: 33712827 DOI: 10.1093/ilar/ilab005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Animal models provide a valuable tool and resource for biomedical researchers as they investigate biological processes, disease pathogenesis, novel therapies, and toxicologic studies. Interpretation of animal model data requires knowledge not only of the processes/diseases being studied but also awareness of spontaneous conditions and background lesions in the model that can influence or even confound the study results. Species, breed/stock, sex, age, anatomy, physiology, diseases (noninfectious and infectious), and neoplastic processes are model features that can impact the results as well as study interpretation. Here, we review these features in several common laboratory animal species, including ferret, dog (beagle), pig, sheep, and goats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristi L Helke
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - David K Meyerholz
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Amanda P Beck
- Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Eric R Burrough
- Veterinary Diagnostic and Production Animal Medicine Department, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, USA
| | - Rachel J Derscheid
- Veterinary Diagnostic and Production Animal Medicine Department, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, USA
| | - Christiane Löhr
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, USA
| | - Elizabeth F McInnes
- Toxicologic Pathology, Toxicology Section, Human Safety at Syngenta, in Jealott's Hill, Bracknell, United Kingdom
| | - Cheryl L Scudamore
- ExePathology, Pathologist at ExePathology, Exmouth, Devon, United Kingdom
| | - Cory F Brayton
- Department of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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11
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Ayuso M, Buyssens L, Stroe M, Valenzuela A, Allegaert K, Smits A, Annaert P, Mulder A, Carpentier S, Van Ginneken C, Van Cruchten S. The Neonatal and Juvenile Pig in Pediatric Drug Discovery and Development. Pharmaceutics 2020; 13:44. [PMID: 33396805 PMCID: PMC7823749 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13010044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pharmacotherapy in pediatric patients is challenging in view of the maturation of organ systems and processes that affect pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Especially for the youngest age groups and for pediatric-only indications, neonatal and juvenile animal models can be useful to assess drug safety and to better understand the mechanisms of diseases or conditions. In this respect, the use of neonatal and juvenile pigs in the field of pediatric drug discovery and development is promising, although still limited at this point. This review summarizes the comparative postnatal development of pigs and humans and discusses the advantages of the juvenile pig in view of developmental pharmacology, pediatric diseases, drug discovery and drug safety testing. Furthermore, limitations and unexplored aspects of this large animal model are covered. At this point in time, the potential of the neonatal and juvenile pig as nonclinical safety models for pediatric drug development is underexplored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Ayuso
- Comparative Perinatal Development, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium; (L.B.); (M.S.); (A.V.); (C.V.G.)
| | - Laura Buyssens
- Comparative Perinatal Development, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium; (L.B.); (M.S.); (A.V.); (C.V.G.)
| | - Marina Stroe
- Comparative Perinatal Development, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium; (L.B.); (M.S.); (A.V.); (C.V.G.)
| | - Allan Valenzuela
- Comparative Perinatal Development, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium; (L.B.); (M.S.); (A.V.); (C.V.G.)
| | - Karel Allegaert
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (K.A.); (P.A.)
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium;
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Erasmus MC Rotterdam, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anne Smits
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium;
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, University Hospitals UZ Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Pieter Annaert
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (K.A.); (P.A.)
| | - Antonius Mulder
- Department of Neonatology, University Hospital Antwerp, 2650 Edegem, Belgium;
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics, University of Antwerp, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
| | | | - Chris Van Ginneken
- Comparative Perinatal Development, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium; (L.B.); (M.S.); (A.V.); (C.V.G.)
| | - Steven Van Cruchten
- Comparative Perinatal Development, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium; (L.B.); (M.S.); (A.V.); (C.V.G.)
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12
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Short B. Selected Aspects of Ocular Toxicity Studies With a Focus on High-Quality Pathology Reports: A Pathology/Toxicology Consultant's Perspective. Toxicol Pathol 2020; 49:673-699. [PMID: 32815474 DOI: 10.1177/0192623320946712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Ocular toxicity studies are the bedrock of nonclinical ocular drug and drug-device development, and there has been an evolution in experience, technologies, and challenges to address that ensures safe clinical trials and marketing authorization. The expectations of a well-designed ocular toxicity study and the generation of a coherent, integrative ocular toxicology report and subreports are high, and this article provides a pathology/toxicology consultant's perspective on achieving that goal. The first objective is to cover selected aspects of study designs for ocular toxicity studies including considerations for contract research organization selection, minipig species selection, unilateral versus bilateral dosing, and in-life parameters based on fit-for-purpose study objectives. The main objective is a focus on a high-quality ocular pathology report that includes ocular histology procedures to meet regulatory expectations and a report narrative and tables that correlate microscopic findings with key ophthalmic findings and presents a clear interpretation of test article-, vehicle-, and procedure-related ocular and extraocular findings with identification of adversity and a pathology peer review. The last objective covers considerations for a high-quality ophthalmology report, which in concert with a high-quality pathology report, will pave the way for a best quality toxicology report for an ocular toxicity study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Short
- Brian Short Consulting, LLC, Laguna Beach, CA, USA
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13
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Sellers RS, Nelson K, Bennet B, Wolf J, Tripathi N, Chamanza R, Perron Lepage MF, Adkins K, Laurent S, Troth SP. Scientific and Regulatory Policy Committee Points to Consider*: Approaches to the Conduct and Interpretation of Vaccine Safety Studies for Clinical and Anatomic Pathologists. Toxicol Pathol 2019; 48:257-276. [PMID: 31594486 DOI: 10.1177/0192623319875085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The design and execution of toxicology studies supporting vaccine development have some unique considerations relative to those supporting traditional small molecules and biologics. A working group of the Society of Toxicologic Pathology Scientific and Regulatory Policy Committee conducted a review of the scientific, technical, and regulatory considerations for veterinary pathologists and toxicologists related to the design and evaluation of regulatory toxicology studies supporting vaccine clinical trials. Much of the information in this document focuses on the development of prophylactic vaccines for infectious agents. Many of these considerations also apply to therapeutic vaccine development (such as vaccines directed against cancer epitopes); important differences will be identified in various sections as appropriate. The topics addressed in this Points to Consider article include regulatory guidelines for nonclinical vaccine studies, study design (including species selection), technical considerations in dosing and injection site collection, study end point evaluation, and data interpretation. The intent of this publication is to share learnings related to nonclinical studies to support vaccine development to help others as they move into this therapeutic area. [Box: see text].
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Bindu Bennet
- Janssen Research & Development LLC, Spring House, PA, USA
| | | | | | - Ronnie Chamanza
- Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson, Beerse, Belgium
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14
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Ushio N, Chambers JK, Watanabe KI, Kishimoto TE, Shiga T, Li JY, Nakayama H, Uchida K. Chronic Inflammatory and Proliferative Lesions of the Gallbladder in Aged Pigs. Vet Pathol 2019; 57:122-131. [PMID: 31551021 DOI: 10.1177/0300985819875749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Primary epithelial tumors of the gallbladder are rarely reported in animals. In this study, 9 aged pigs (6-12 years old) were histopathologically examined for gallbladder proliferative lesions. At necropsy, a large gallstone occupied the lumen of the gallbladder of 3 pigs. Histopathological examination revealed chronic cholecystitis in all 9 pigs, mucosal hyperplasia in 2 pigs, adenoma in 1 pig, and adenocarcinoma in 2 pigs. Bacilli were detected in the gallbladder lumen of 6 pigs by Warthin-Starry stain. Mucosal hyperplasia, adenoma, and adenocarcinoma were characterized by papillary projections of the mucosa with occasional acinar structures. Tumor invasion of the surrounding tissue was observed in the cases of adenocarcinoma. On Alcian blue and periodic acid-Schiff double-stained sections, the acinar structure of gallbladder mucosa in chronic cholecystitis and mucosal hyperplasia was stained in a mosaic pattern, indicating pyloric gland metaplasia. The results of immunohistochemistry revealed a CD10-positive epithelial brush border and mucin (MUC) 2-positive goblet cells in chronic cholecystitis, adenoma, and adenocarcinomas, indicating intestinal metaplasia. Immunoreactivity of MUC5 AC and cytokeratin 19 was weaker in adenoma and adenocarcinomas compared with the normal and hyperplastic gallbladder mucosa. The number of p53-positive nuclei and the Ki-67 index were higher in adenocarcinomas compared with benign lesions. These results suggest that chronic cholecystitis associated with gallstones and/or bacterial infections may contribute to metaplastic changes and development of gallbladder tumors in aged pigs. Alteration of mucin, cytokeratin, and p53 profiles in gallbladder proliferative lesions in pigs were similar to that in humans, suggesting a common pathogenesis in tumor development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nanako Ushio
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - James K Chambers
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ken-Ichi Watanabe
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Research Center for Global Agromedicine, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Takuya E Kishimoto
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takanori Shiga
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Jun-You Li
- Animal Resource Science Center, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Nakayama
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuyuki Uchida
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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15
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Kangawa A, Nishimura T, Nishimura T, Otake M, Enya S, Yoshida T, Shibata M. Spontaneous Age-Related Histopathological Changes in Microminipigs. Toxicol Pathol 2019; 47:817-832. [PMID: 31337280 DOI: 10.1177/0192623319861350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Microminipigs have become an attractive animal model for toxicology and pharmacology studies and for human disease models, owing to their manageable size. Although there are numerous reports of spontaneous age-related lesions in mice, rats, dogs, and monkeys, those in minipigs are scarce. In the present study, spontaneous age-related histopathological changes were investigated using 37 microminipigs (20 males and 17 females) that were 6 months to 10 years of age. Abnormal deposits of materials were evident in several animals from 6 years of age, and these deposits included amyloid in the renal medulla, thyroid gland, and adrenal gland, hyaline droplets in glomeruli, and fibrillar inclusions in neurons. Arterial sclerosing changes (intimal thickening, intimal proliferation, and medial mineralization) and proliferative lesions (hyperplasia of hepatocytes, follicular cells, Leydig cells, and uterine endometrial glands) were present at 4 years of age and beyond. Renal adenoma, uterine leiomyoma, and Leydig cell tumor were observed in several microminipigs. Moreover, glomerulosclerosis, renal interstitial fibrosis, thymic involution, and adrenocortical cell vacuolation were common in aging microminipigs. Since knowledge of age-related changes is helpful for pathologists, the basic information obtained in this study will be a useful reference for all future toxicity evaluations in microminipigs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akihisa Kangawa
- Swine and Poultry Department, Shizuoka Prefectural Research Institute of Animal Industry, Swine and Poultry Research Center, Shizuoka, Japan
| | | | | | - Masayoshi Otake
- Swine and Poultry Department, Shizuoka Prefectural Research Institute of Animal Industry, Swine and Poultry Research Center, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Satoko Enya
- Swine and Poultry Department, Shizuoka Prefectural Research Institute of Animal Industry, Swine and Poultry Research Center, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Toshinori Yoshida
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Shibata
- Swine and Poultry Department, Shizuoka Prefectural Research Institute of Animal Industry, Swine and Poultry Research Center, Shizuoka, Japan
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16
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Postol E, Sá-Rocha LC, Sampaio RO, Demarchi LMMF, Alencar RE, Abduch MCD, Kalil J, Guilherme L. Group A Streptococcus Adsorbed Vaccine: Repeated Intramuscular Dose Toxicity Test in Minipigs. Sci Rep 2019; 9:9733. [PMID: 31278336 PMCID: PMC6611820 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-46244-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Streptococcus pyogenes infection continues to be a worldwide public health problem causing various diseases in humans and plays an important role in the pathogenesis of rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease. We developed a vaccine candidate to prevent S. pyogenes infections, identified as StreptInCor, that presented promising results in mouse models. A certified and independent laboratory conducted two repeated intramuscular dose toxicity tests (28 days, four weekly injections). The first test, composed of four experimental groups treated with 0 (vehicle), 50, 100 or 200 µg/500 µL StreptInCor, did not show significant alterations in clinical, hematological, biochemical or anatomopathological parameters related to the administration of StreptInCor. In addition to the parameters mentioned above, we evaluated the cardiac function and valves of animals by echocardiography before and after administration of 200 µg/500 µL StreptInCor versus placebo. We did not observe any changes related to StreptInCor administration, including changes in cardiac function and valves in animals, after receiving the highest dose of this vaccine candidate. The results obtained in the two repeated intramuscular dose toxicity tests showed that this vaccine formulation did not induce harmful effects to the tissues and organs studied, indicating that the candidate vaccine is well tolerated in minipigs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edilberto Postol
- Heart Institute (InCor), School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Immunology Investigation Institute, National Institute for Science and Technology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luiz C Sá-Rocha
- Neuroimmunology Laboratory School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Immunology Investigation Institute, National Institute for Science and Technology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Roney O Sampaio
- Heart Institute (InCor), School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lea M M F Demarchi
- Heart Institute (InCor), School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Raquel E Alencar
- Heart Institute (InCor), School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Immunology Investigation Institute, National Institute for Science and Technology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria C D Abduch
- Heart Institute (InCor), School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Jorge Kalil
- Heart Institute (InCor), School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Immunology Investigation Institute, National Institute for Science and Technology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Clinical Immunology and Allergy Division, School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luiza Guilherme
- Heart Institute (InCor), School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil. .,Immunology Investigation Institute, National Institute for Science and Technology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
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17
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Nakamura K, Otake M. [Current progress of research and use of microminipigs in drug development]. Nihon Yakurigaku Zasshi 2019; 152:202-207. [PMID: 30298842 DOI: 10.1254/fpj.152.202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
The use of minipigs has been increasing in the areas of pharmacology researches and drug development. The microminipig developed by Fuji Micra Inc. (Shizuoka, Japan) inherits characteristics of other pig strains showing several similarities to humans in anatomy, physiology, omnivorousness and diurnal, but at the same time has several advantages over other pig strains because of its small size which allows easy keeping, handling and dosing, and saving of test substances. The microminipig weighs about 10 kg at the age of 6 months. Canine cages can be used to keep the animal. Swine leukocyte antigens (SLA) are defined in each individual animal which is useful for testing immunological reactions. As there are many similarities in metabolic enzymes and transporters to those in humans, the microminipig is a powerful animal model for toxicokinetic studies. Unfortunately as in other minipigs the microminipig is not appropriate for embryo-fetal development studies of antibody drugs due to its poor placental transfer, but can be used for other reproductive and developmental studies. Repeat dose toxicity, safety pharmacology, immunotoxicity and local tolerance studies should be also other arenas of this animal model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuichi Nakamura
- Laboratory of Toxicology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Kitasato University
| | - Masayoshi Otake
- Swine and Poultry Department, Shizuoka Prefectural Research Institute of Animal Industry, Swine and Poultry Research Center
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18
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Kangawa A, Otake M, Enya S, Yoshida T, Shibata M. Histological Changes of the Testicular Interstitium during Postnatal Development in Microminipigs. Toxicol Pathol 2019; 47:469-482. [PMID: 30739565 DOI: 10.1177/0192623319827477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Microminipigs have become an attractive animal model for the toxicology- and pharmacology-related studies because of their manageable size. In this study, the development of the testicular interstitium and steroidogenesis in microminipigs, from 0 to 12 months of age, were investigated. Testicular interstitium was mostly composed of two types of Leydig cells (large and small Leydig cells) and a few macrophages and mast cells. Large Leydig cells were observed in the peritubular area throughout all the ages. Small Leydig cells were present in the interlobular and subcapsular areas at an early age and then gradually converted into large Leydig cells. Testicular composition of the Leydig cells began to increase after 3 months of age, when spermatogenesis was completed, and reached approximately 35% at 12 months. Steroidogenic enzymes in Leydig cells were detected by immunohistochemistry from 0 month of age. Serum testosterone levels increased substantially from 1.5 to 4.5 months of age, which coincided well with the age of sexual development previously reported in microminipigs. Because the interstitial space of the testis has dramatic variations between species, the basic information obtained in the present study will be a useful reference for all the future toxicity evaluations in microminipigs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akihisa Kangawa
- 1 Swine and Poultry Department, Swine and Poultry Research Center, Shizuoka Prefectural Research Institute of Animal Industry, Kikugawa, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Masayoshi Otake
- 1 Swine and Poultry Department, Swine and Poultry Research Center, Shizuoka Prefectural Research Institute of Animal Industry, Kikugawa, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Satoko Enya
- 1 Swine and Poultry Department, Swine and Poultry Research Center, Shizuoka Prefectural Research Institute of Animal Industry, Kikugawa, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Toshinori Yoshida
- 2 Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Shibata
- 1 Swine and Poultry Department, Swine and Poultry Research Center, Shizuoka Prefectural Research Institute of Animal Industry, Kikugawa, Shizuoka, Japan
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19
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Elmore SA, Carreira V, Labriola CS, Mahapatra D, McKeag SR, Rinke M, Shackelford C, Singh B, Talley A, Wallace SM, Wancket LM, Willson CJ. Proceedings of the 2018 National Toxicology Program Satellite Symposium. Toxicol Pathol 2018; 46:865-897. [PMID: 30282530 DOI: 10.1177/0192623318800734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The 2018 annual National Toxicology Program Satellite Symposium, entitled "Pathology Potpourri," was held in Indianapolis, Indiana, at the Society of Toxicologic Pathology's 37th annual meeting. The goal of this symposium was to present and discuss challenging diagnostic pathology and/or nomenclature issues. This article presents summaries of the speakers' talks along with select images that were used by the audience for voting and discussion. Various lesions and other topics covered during the symposium included seminiferous tubule dysgenesis in rats, ameloblast and odontoblast degeneration/necrosis in a Sprague Dawley rat, intestinal leiomyositis in a beagle dog, gallbladder mucinous hyperplasia, focus of hepatocellular alteration and bile duct alteration in otters, renal tubule cytoplasmic vacuolation with basophilic granules in mice treated swith antisense oligonucleotide therapy, a uterine choriocarcinoma in a rhesus macaque, and rete ovarii proliferative ovarian lesions in various aged rat strains. One particularly provocative lesion was a malignant neoplastic proliferation in the renal pelvic region of a cynomolgus macaque from a 21-day study. Additional challenging lesions included thyroid proliferative lesions in zebra fish and gross findings in fish larvae during routine chemical screening. The Rabbit and Minipig International Harmonization of Nomenclature and Diagnostic Criteria Organ Working Groups also presented a series of challenging lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan A Elmore
- 1 Cellular and Molecular Pathology Branch, National Toxicology Program, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Caralyn S Labriola
- 3 Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Debabrata Mahapatra
- 4 Integrated Laboratory Systems, Inc., Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Sean R McKeag
- 5 Covance Laboratories, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, United Kingdom
| | | | - Cynthia Shackelford
- 7 Experimental Pathology Laboratories, Inc., Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Bhanu Singh
- 8 Janssen Research & Development, Spring House, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ashley Talley
- 9 Charles River Laboratories, Inc., Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Shannon M Wallace
- 10 Experimental Pathology Laboratories, Inc., Sterling, Virginia, USA
| | | | - Cynthia J Willson
- 4 Integrated Laboratory Systems, Inc., Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
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20
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Dincer Z, Piccicuto V, Walker UJ, Mahl A, McKeag S. Spontaneous and Drug-induced Arteritis/Polyarteritis in the Göttingen Minipig—Review. Toxicol Pathol 2018; 46:121-130. [DOI: 10.1177/0192623318754791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Arteritis/polyarteritis occurs spontaneously in many species used in preclinical toxicology studies. In Göttingen minipigs, arteritis/polyarteritis is an occasionally observed background change. In the minipig, this finding differs in frequency and nature from age-related polyarteritis nodosa in rats or monkeys, and Beagle pain syndrome in dogs. In minipigs, it can be present in a single small- or medium-sized artery of an organ or a few organs and is most commonly recorded in the cardiac and extracardiac blood vessels, vagina, oviduct, rectum, epididymis, spinal cord, pancreas, urinary bladder, kidneys, and stomach. The etiology is unknown although it has been considered in minipigs as well as in rats, dogs, and monkeys to be possibly immune mediated. This background change is important with respect to its nature and distribution in the minipig in order to distinguish it from drug-induced vascular changes, which might occur in similar locations and have similar morphologic features. This review summarizes the morphology, incidence, and predilection sites of arteritis as a spontaneously occurring background change and as a drug-induced vasculopathy in the minipig, and also describes the main aspects to consider when evaluating vascular changes in Göttingen minipig toxicity studies and their human relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuhal Dincer
- Pathology Department, Covance Laboratories Limited, Harrogate, United Kingdom
| | - Virginie Piccicuto
- Pathology Department, Covance Laboratories Limited, Harrogate, United Kingdom
| | - Ursula Junker Walker
- Preclinical Safety, Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Mahl
- Preclinical Safety, Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Sean McKeag
- Pathology Department, Covance Laboratories Limited, Harrogate, United Kingdom
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21
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Picut CA, Ziejewski MK, Stanislaus D. Comparative Aspects of Pre- and Postnatal Development of the Male Reproductive System. Birth Defects Res 2017; 110:190-227. [PMID: 29063715 DOI: 10.1002/bdr2.1133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2017] [Revised: 08/29/2017] [Accepted: 08/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
This review describes pre- and postnatal development of the male reproductive system in humans and laboratory animals, and highlights species differences in the timing and control of hormonal and morphologic events. Major differences are that the fetal testis is dependent on gonadotropins in humans, but is independent of such in rats; humans have an extended postnatal quiescent period, whereas rats exhibit no quiescence; and events such as secretion by the prostate and seminal vesicles, testicular descent, and the appearance of spermatogonia are all prenatal events in humans, but are postnatal events in rats. Major differences in the timing of the developmental sequence between rats and humans include: gonocyte transformation period (rat: postnatal day 0-9; human: includes gestational week 22 to 9 months of age); masculinization programming window (rat: gestational day 15.5-17.5; human: gestational week 9-14); and mini-puberty (rat: 0-6 hr after birth; human: 3-6 months of age). Endocrine disruptors can cause unique lesions in the prenatal and early postnatal testis; therefore, it is important to consider the differences in the timing of the developmental sequence when designing preclinical studies as identification of windows of sensitivity for endocrine disruption or toxicants will aid in interpretation of results and provide clues to a mode of action. Birth Defects Research 110:190-227, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine A Picut
- Charles River Laboratories, Pathology Associates, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Mary K Ziejewski
- GlaxoSmithKline Research & Development, King of Prussia, Pennsylvania
| | - D Stanislaus
- GlaxoSmithKline Research & Development, King of Prussia, Pennsylvania
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22
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Ramot Y, Obaya A, McNamara A, Nyska A. Cutaneous Candidiasis in a Gottingen Minipig: A Potential Pitfall in Preclinical Studies. Toxicol Pathol 2017; 45:1032-1034. [PMID: 28929952 DOI: 10.1177/0192623317732295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The Göttingen minipig is often used in preclinical toxicity studies. Therefore, knowledge of spontaneously occurring pathologies is important to differentiate them from test drug-related effects. We report on a Göttingen minipig, which developed exudating widespread dermatitis during a preclinical toxicity study with a subcutaneously injected drug. The lesions were resistant to topical and oral antibacterial medications. Skin cultures were positive for Candida albicans, and treatment was changed to topical antifungal cream with quick resolution of the skin lesions. Cutaneous candidiasis in pigs has been rarely reported in the literature, and this is the first report on such condition in preclinical toxicity studies. Knowledge of this condition, which is not drug related, is important, especially in toxicity studies involving subcutaneous injections that are commonly accompanied by inflammatory skin reactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuval Ramot
- 1 Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Ana Obaya
- 2 Veterinary Services, Envigo, Huntingdon, United Kingdom
| | - Alice McNamara
- 2 Veterinary Services, Envigo, Huntingdon, United Kingdom
| | - Abraham Nyska
- 3 Toxicologic Pathology, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Timrat, Israel
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23
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Kangawa A, Otake M, Enya S, Yoshida T, Shibata M. Normal Developmental and Estrous Cycle–dependent Histological Features of the Female Reproductive Organs in Microminipigs. Toxicol Pathol 2017; 45:551-573. [DOI: 10.1177/0192623317710012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The microminipig has become an increasingly attractive animal model for various experimental practices because of its manageable size; however, studies of the histological features of the female reproductive organs in microminipigs are limited. The present study investigates the sexual development of the reproductive organs and the cyclical changes during the estrous cycle in female microminipigs. The ovaries, oviducts, uteri, and vaginal tissues from 33 animals aged 0 to 26 months were utilized in this study. By evaluating the large tertiary follicles, corpora lutea, and the regressing corpora lutea, we estimated that female microminipigs reached puberty at approximately 5 months of age and sexual maturity at 8 months of age. The appearance of the follicles and corpora lutea in the ovaries, as well as the epithelium in other reproductive organs, was synchronized with each phase of the estrous cycle and was identical to that in common domestic pigs. In addition, several spontaneous findings were observed, including mesonephric duct remnants adjacent to oviducts and mineralization in ovaries. Understanding the normal histology of the reproductive organs in microminipigs is crucial for advancing pathological evaluations for future toxicological studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akihisa Kangawa
- Swine and Poultry Department, Shizuoka Prefectural Research Institute of Animal Industry, Swine and Poultry Research Center, Kikugawa, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Masayoshi Otake
- Swine and Poultry Department, Shizuoka Prefectural Research Institute of Animal Industry, Swine and Poultry Research Center, Kikugawa, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Satoko Enya
- Swine and Poultry Department, Shizuoka Prefectural Research Institute of Animal Industry, Swine and Poultry Research Center, Kikugawa, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Toshinori Yoshida
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Shibata
- Swine and Poultry Department, Shizuoka Prefectural Research Institute of Animal Industry, Swine and Poultry Research Center, Kikugawa, Shizuoka, Japan
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24
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Sellers RS, Pardo I, Hu G, Khan KN, Perry R, Markiewicz V, Rohde C, Colangelo J, Reagan W, Clarke D. Inflammatory Cell Findings in the Female Rabbit Heart and Stress-associated Exacerbation with Handling and Procedures Used in Nonclinical Studies. Toxicol Pathol 2017; 45:416-426. [DOI: 10.1177/0192623317700519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Despite the use of rabbits in biomedical research, including regulatory toxicology and cardiovascular studies, little data exist on heart findings in this species. This study was designed to document myocardial findings in female rabbits and the impact of study-related procedures typical for vaccine toxicology studies. One hundred and forty 6- to 8-month-old female New Zealand White rabbits were divided equally into 2 groups, high and low study procedure groups (group 1 and group 2, respectively). All animals received intramuscular (IM) injections of sterile saline every 2 weeks for 5 times and were necropsied 2 days after the final IM injection. Clinical chemistry, hematology, and urinalysis were evaluated. Blood for stress biomarkers (norepinephrine, epinephrine, cortisol, and corticosterone), C-reactive protein, cardiac troponin I, and creatine kinase were collected at time 0 (just before dose administration) and then at 4, 24, and 48 hr after dose administration in group 1 only. Hearts were assessed histologically. Focal to multifocal minimal inflammatory cell infiltrates were common (∼80%), particularly in the left ventricle and interventricular septum, and were similar to the types of infiltrates identified in other laboratory animal species. Additionally, study-related procedures elevated serum stress biomarkers and exacerbated the frequency and severity of myocardial inflammatory cell infiltrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rani S. Sellers
- Drug Safety Research and Development, Pfizer Inc., Pearl River, New York, USA
| | - Ingrid Pardo
- Drug Safety Research and Development, Pfizer Inc., Groton, Connecticut, USA
| | - George Hu
- Drug Safety Research and Development, Pfizer Inc., Pearl River, New York, USA
| | - K. Nasir Khan
- Drug Safety Research and Development, Pfizer Inc., Groton, Connecticut, USA
| | - Richard Perry
- Drug Safety Research and Development, Pfizer Inc., Groton, Connecticut, USA
| | | | - Cynthia Rohde
- Drug Safety Research and Development, Pfizer Inc., Pearl River, New York, USA
| | - Jennifer Colangelo
- Drug Safety Research and Development, Pfizer Inc., Groton, Connecticut, USA
| | - William Reagan
- Drug Safety Research and Development, Pfizer Inc., Groton, Connecticut, USA
| | - David Clarke
- Drug Safety Research and Development, Pfizer Inc., Pearl River, New York, USA
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25
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Picut CA, Remick AK. Impact of Age on the Male Reproductive System from the Pathologist’s Perspective. Toxicol Pathol 2016; 45:195-205. [DOI: 10.1177/0192623316672744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Age, and in particular young age, can significantly impact the response to toxicants in animals and can greatly influence the interpretation of tissue changes by the toxicologic pathologist. Although this applies to multiple organ systems, the current review focuses on the male reproductive system. When performing microscopic evaluation of male reproductive organs, the toxicologic pathologist must be aware of the dynamic changes in histomorphology, predominantly driven by timed hormonal alterations, at various life stages. Specific challenges pathologists face are understanding the appearance of male reproductive tissues throughout the neonatal, infantile, and juvenile developmental periods, recognizing when normal looks abnormal during tissue development, defining sexual maturity, and working with high interanimal variability in maturation rate and histologic appearance in developing large laboratory animals, such as nonhuman primates, dogs, and pigs. This review describes postnatal development of the male reproductive system in the rat, demonstrates how assessing toxicity during a defined window of postnatal development in the rat may improve definition of toxicant timing and targets, and discusses challenges associated with the interpretation of toxicity in immature large animal species. The emphasis is on key age-related characteristics that influence the interpretation of tissue changes by the toxicologic pathologist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine A. Picut
- Charles River Laboratories, Pathology Associates, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Amera K. Remick
- Charles River Laboratories, Pathology Associates, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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Kangawa A, Otake M, Enya S, Yoshida T, Shibata M. Histological Development of Male Reproductive Organs in Microminipigs. Toxicol Pathol 2016; 44:1105-1122. [PMID: 27770108 DOI: 10.1177/0192623316673495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Microminipigs are becoming increasingly attractive alternatives for various experimental applications, such as general toxicology studies, owing to their manageable size. However, there are limited studies on the male reproductive organs of microminipigs, particularly on the histological aspects of sexual maturity. To clarify the development of male reproductive organs, 35 male microminipigs, aged 0 to 12 months, were used in this study. Histological and histomorphological evaluation was performed based on spermatogenic development, measurement of tubular structure in testes and epididymides, and histological progress of accessory glands. In addition, spontaneous testicular changes were quantitatively assessed. Histologically, male microminipigs sexually matured around 4.5 months of age, when spermatogenesis in testes and structural development in genital organs were completed. Spontaneous testicular changes occurred in all the animals investigated. Multinucleated giant cell was most commonly observed, followed by hypospermatogenesis and tubular atrophy/hypoplasia. However, the number of affected tubules was less than 1% in testes after 4.5 months of age, suggesting that the influence of these changes on evaluation of toxicity studies may be minimal. It is preferable to use sexually mature animals in toxicology studies; therefore, the information obtained by the present study will be helpful for future toxicity evaluations in microminipigs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akihisa Kangawa
- 1 Swine and Poultry Department, Shizuoka Prefectural Research Institute of Animal Industry, Swine and Poultry Research Center, Kikugawa, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Masayoshi Otake
- 1 Swine and Poultry Department, Shizuoka Prefectural Research Institute of Animal Industry, Swine and Poultry Research Center, Kikugawa, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Satoko Enya
- 1 Swine and Poultry Department, Shizuoka Prefectural Research Institute of Animal Industry, Swine and Poultry Research Center, Kikugawa, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Toshinori Yoshida
- 2 Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Fuchu, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Shibata
- 1 Swine and Poultry Department, Shizuoka Prefectural Research Institute of Animal Industry, Swine and Poultry Research Center, Kikugawa, Shizuoka, Japan
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