Pigs in Biomedical Research

For the past two decades, pigs have been used in biomedical research as replacements for dogs and primates, as well as models of human disease based upon their own unique anatomy and physiology. One important use is in cardiology research where pigs and humans share many traits: heart size, cardiac output, coronary blood supply, collateralization of blood supply following infarct, presence of small arterial vessels in the wall of the aorta called vaso vasorum, and response to certain dietary factors as promoters for atherosclerosis. Being omnivorous with a digestive system similar to humans, pigs are often used for nutritional studies. For many years, pigs were the preferred model for gastric ulcer research and like humans, ulcers develop as a result of bacteria, diet and "stress" factors. The skin of pigs shares many characteristics with that of man so they have been frequent models for wound healing, plastic surgery techniques and effects of UV light. Pigs are extensively used for training in surgical techniques and emergency medical procedures, in part, because their relatively large size allows human instruments to be used without modification.

Pigs in Agricultural Research

Pigs were the earliest farm species, other than poultry, to be housed under intensive management conditions. As such, pigs have been studied to determine the effects of various environmental and social conditions on production values. Research projects have examined factors as diverse as light cycle, background or "white" noise, pen size and shape, flooring materials and effects of social isolation. Commercial hog production units have been at the forefront in animal welfare issues and many different housing options are being studied to determine the most humane, at the same time, most productive methods. The distinction between what is considered biomedical versus agricultural research is often blurred. For instance, the high occurrence of osteoporosis in aged sows confined in crates, but maintained on a balanced ration, gave new insight into the importance of exercise, as well as diet, in preventing the disease in older women.

Regulatory Standards

Since pigs may be used as models for both biomedical and agricultural research projects, these animals may be housed at facilities operated by University Animal Care (UAC), or, at university farms. Although certain standards are the same, no matter where pigs are kept, there are important differences which must be observed, in order to remain in compliance with Federal laws. (Copies of all laws and regulations are available at UAC).

Housed in UAC facilities, either used for agricultural or biomedical research:

Husbandry is provided by UAC staff.
The standards to be followed are published in the NIH Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals (Guide for Lab Animals) and the Animal Welfare Act-Code of Federal Regulations (AWA).

Research staff must provide surgical care at a similar level as that afforded to a human patient, including the strict adherence to aseptic (sterile) surgical techniques, the use of anesthetics, and the administration of post surgical analgesics, that is, drugs to alleviate pain following surgery.

In fact, any experimental procedure which involves pain more than a needle prick, requires analgesics; unless the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) approves a scientific exemption.

Housed at University farms and used on biomedical projects, e.g., those funded by NIH or AZ Heart Association.

Husbandry is provided by students and employees of the Departments of Veterinary Science and Animal Science.
The standards are those outlined in the Guide for Lab Animals and the AWA, with all the same requirements mentioned in the preceding section regarding surgical care, anesthetics and the need for analgesic drugs for all painful procedures. The only time pain relieving drugs are not given is when the IACUC has granted a scientific exemption. It will not be tolerated for staff to provide less intensive care for pigs, simply because they are a farm species. For instance, many farmers do not anesthetize pigs for castration; this is not sufficient justification for withholding anesthetics for research projects.

Housed at university farms and used on agricultural projects:

Husbandry is provided by students and employees of the Departments of Veterinary Science and Animal Science.
Specific requirements are published in the Guide for the Care and Use of Agricultural Animals in Agricultural Research and Teaching (Guide for Animals in Ag. Research). These regulations are essentially comparable to conditions found at a well-managed farm.

Summary : Standards to Follow for Pigs Kept at the University of Arizona

Biomedical Project	Agricultural Project	UAC Housing	Farm Housing	Applicable Standards are Written in:
X	-	X	-	Guide for Lab. Animals + AWA
X	-	-	X	Guide for Lab. Animals + AWA
-	X	X	-	Guide for Lab. Animals + AWA
-	X	-	X	Guide for Animals in Ag. Research

Occupational Health and Safety Issues

Should any injury occur, immediately contact the facility supervisor and apply emergency first-aid. For serious injuries, the 911 system may be activated from anywhere in Tucson. Any injury needs to be reported to the facility supervisor, even if it appears to be minor!

One potential risk to personnel is accidental exposure to pesticides and other chemical agents. Always read the label and use the required safety equipment, when handling these materials. Safety equipment may include: gloves, rubber boots, plastic aprons or jumpsuits. Should an exposure occur, apply emergency first-aid per the instructions on the label and notify the supervisor. The Department of Risk Management offers "General Lab Chemical Hygiene Training (Lab Safety)"; for info call 621-1790.

Safety glasses should be worn during application of any pesticide or chemical, and whenever pouring from a container (because of splashing).

Another common complaint of persons working with animals is back fatigue. It is advised that all persons wear back support devices when performing their chores. To be fitted with a back support device, you should ask your supervisor. In addition, Department of Risk Management offers a class in "Back Safety"; to enroll, call 621-1790.

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Last updated: 01/02/2008 gea