Oligonucleotide microarray analysis of dietary-induced hyperlipidemia gene expression profiles in miniature pigs.

Background: Hyperlipidemia animal models have been established, but complete gene expression profiles of the transition from normal lipid levels have not been obtained. Miniature pigs are useful model animals for gene expression studies on dietary-induced hyperlipidemia because they have a similar anatomy and digestive physiology to humans, and blood samples can be obtained from them repeatedly.

Methodology: Two typical dietary treatments were used for dietary-induced hyperlipidemia models, by using specific pathogen-free (SPF) Clawn miniature pigs.

Characteristics and gender differences concerning pulmonary hemodynamics in Clawn miniature pigs.

The characteristics and gender differences of the pulmonary hemodynamic parameters of 16 Clawn miniature pigs were examined and the data were compared with reports concerning dogs and other pig species. The pulmonary systolic, diastolic and mean arterial blood pressures of the mini-pig were slightly higher than those of the dog, respectively, but both the right atrial pressure and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure were within the normal physiological ranges of the dog. Concerning gender differences in hemodynamic parameters of the mini-pig, the female values, except the right atrial pressure, were slightly higher than those of the male, but no significant differences were recognized.

Skin morphology of the Clawn miniature pig.

Skin morphology of the Clawn miniature pig (CMP) was investigated at the axilla, medial thigh, back and loin. The mean thickness of the epidermis (excluding the corneal layer), the mean number of layers of keratinocytes comprising the epidermis and the mean height of keratinocytes were assessed morphometrically. When observed under a light microscope, the skin of the CMP resembled human skin.