Editorial note
This newsletter compiles the most important and relevant scientific publications on Göttingen Minipigs from February and March 2026. In Quick Links at the end, other interesting scientific findings in different types of minipigs are shown.
Göttingen Minipigs can always be used for studies performed in other minipig breeds.
The featured studies below delve into various applications involving Göttingen Minipigs across several fields, including cardiology, metabolism, imaging techniques, and safety evaluations. These investigations highlight the versatility of minipigs as a model organism for preclinical research, providing insights into human health challenges from heart failure to obesity.
Article 1
The Effect of Contrast Media Formulations with Different Iodine Preparation Concentrations at a Constant Iodine Delivery Rate in Low-kV CT Angiography: An Experimental Animal Study.
This study explores how varying iodine preparation concentrations of contrast media impact image quality in computed tomography angiography using minipigs.
• Journal: RoFo : Fortschritte auf dem Gebiete der Rontgenstrahlen und der Nuklearmedizin
• Authors: Holtkamp M, Jost G, Salhöfer L, Zensen S, Bos D, Opitz MK, Hosch R, Li Y, Schaarschmidt B, Forsting M, Nensa F, Pietsch H, Haubold J
• Publication date: 2026-03-24
• Original paper: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41875904/
Summary
Using a standardized cohort of six Göttingen Minipigs, this experimental study assessed the performance of three contrast media formulations with iodine concentrations ranging from 300 to 400 mgI/mL. Each formulation was injected at a constant iodine delivery rate while undergoing CT scans. Results indicated that objective and subjective measures of image quality remained comparable across the different formulations, suggesting that higher iodine concentrations did not enhance image quality in low-dose settings. This proof-of-concept may guide future research on optimizing contrast media for better diagnostic imaging.
Article 2
A refined approach of the tachypacing porcine model of heart failure.
This article presents improvements to a model for studying heart failure induced by tachypacing in minipigs.
• Journal: Frontiers in cardiovascular medicine
• Authors: Berboth L, Ötvös J, Faragli A, De Marchi B, Longinotti-Buitoni G, Steendijk P, Attanasio P, Pieske BM, Post H, Heinzel F, Lo Muzio FP, Alogna A
• Publication date: 2026-03-02
• Original paper: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41847511/
Summary
In this study, eight female Göttingen Minipigs were divided into two groups: one received asynchronous tachypacing via a right ventricular pacemaker, while the other served as a control. Over the course of several weeks, disease progression was precisely monitored through echocardiography and invasive measurements. The findings revealed stable dilated cardiomyopathy in the paced animals with minimal stress indicators, suggesting that the adjusted pacing schedule aids in creating a reliable and humane model for heart failure studies, paving the way for further therapeutic testing.
Article 3
Semaglutide mitigates the loss of fat-free mass and decreased energy expenditure observed after diet restriction. Insights from an obese minipig model.
This research evaluates the effects of semaglutide on body composition and metabolic adaptation in minipigs subjected to diet restriction.
• Journal: American journal of physiology. Endocrinology and metabolism
• Authors: Bredum SK, Jacobsen JM, Halling JF, Blom I, Lewis CTA, Ochala J, Fredholm M, Lundh S, Schmücker M, Ozenne B, Domingos AI, Hald B, Larsen S, Cirera S, Christoffersen BØ
• Publication date: 2026-02-11
• Original paper: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41671030/
Summary
Diet-induced obesity in Göttingen Minipigs was modeled and subsequently treated with semaglutide or subjected to diet restriction. Over a 10-week period, body composition, energy expenditure, and other metabolic parameters were assessed. The results indicated that while diet-restricted pigs lost significant fat-free mass and showed decreased energy expenditure, those treated with semaglutide retained greater lean body mass and exhibited benefits in energy metabolism. This highlights potential mechanisms through which GLP-1 receptor agonists can maintain body composition during weight loss interventions.
Article 4
Cardiac mitochondrial proteome of lean, healthy Ossabaw minipigs with predisposition to metabolic syndrome versus that of Göttingen minipigs.
This study investigates the cardiac mitochondrial proteome differences between Ossabaw and Göttingen minipigs, shedding light on metabolic syndrome predisposition.
• Journal: American journal of physiology. Heart and circulatory physiology
• Authors: Eickelmann C, Gedik N, Lieder HR, Kollipara L, Sickmann A, Sturek M, Heusch G, Kleinbongard P
• Publication date: 2026-02-04
• Original paper: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41638602/
Summary
Cardiac mitochondria from lean Ossabaw and Göttingen Minipigs were analyzed to examine differences in mitochondrial protein composition. Although a high overlap in protein expression was found, notable differences were identified concerning proteins involved in energy metabolism and mitochondrial function. The study determined that Ossabaw minipigs demonstrated a significant reduction in ATP production, which may link their genetic predisposition to metabolic syndrome. These findings offer valuable insights for understanding the molecular basis of metabolic diseases and potential therapeutic targets.
Article 5
Experimental Evaluation of a Hybrid Iodine-Gadolinium Contrast Medium in Photon-counting Detector CT.
The study evaluates a new iodine-gadolinium hybrid contrast medium’s effectiveness in improving imaging quality in minipigs.
• Journal: Investigative radiology
• Authors: Haag F, Rink J, Lohrke J, Schoenberg SO, Pietsch H, Froelich MF, Jost G
• Publication date: 2026-02-02
• Original paper: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41626702/
Summary
The team conducted in vitro and in vivo experiments involving Göttingen Minipigs to assess the performance of BAY3685750, a hybrid iodine-gadolinium contrast medium, against conventional agents. The findings revealed superior attenuation and image quality when using the hybrid medium across various energy levels. This innovative approach could significantly enhance diagnostic imaging capabilities, especially in high-energy reconstructions, marking an advancement in contrast medium development for clinical applications.
Quick Links to other recent and relevant publications using different types of minipigs
• Preclinical Safety Evaluation of BB106, a Novel Ketamine-Sulfobutylether-Beta-Cyclodextrin Salt, Following Subcutaneous Administration in Rats and Göttingen Minipigs. — https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41557945
• γ-Radiation induces region-specific subcellular alterations of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia markers in swine brain. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41547996/
• Effects of oropharyngeal neuromuscular stimulation on the volumetric enlarged and reduced tongue base in minipigs. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41877585/
• Healing mechanism of PSO on deep second-degree burn wounds in a porcine model. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41871631/
• Intestinal Development in Wuzhishan Pigs at Different Growth Phases: Insights from Microbiome and Metabolomics. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41897953/
• Tissue Penetration of Gemcitabine and Gemcitabine Phosphate Metabolites Following Gemcitabine Intravesical System Administration Versus Standard Intravesical Instillation in a Preclinical Minipig Model. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41864781/
• Functional integration of an autologous engineered esophagus in a large-animal model. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41862601/
• Lactobacillus combination alleviates dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis in Wuzhishan minipigs - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41860415/
• SEC-based isolation of phosphatidylserine-liposomes from biological samples for preclinical studies. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41838109/
• A Translational Surgical Porcine Model for Postoperative Intra-Abdominal Adhesion Formation. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41911229/
• A Surgical Method for Subvalvular Structure Intervention Through a Transaortic Approach in Normal Bama Pigs. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41911172/
• Acute cardio-centric haemodynamic management preserves chronic cardiovascular function in pigs with high-thoracic spinal cord injury. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41823338/
• Oropharyngeal structural dynamics during mastication and swallowing associated with tongue base volumetric changes. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41855923/
• Selective targeting of endothelial and perivascular angiocrine ROCK2 treats liver fibrosis. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41794026/
• Bilateral pseudo-disc changes in a minipig model for unilateral anterior disc displacement of the temporomandibular joint. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41781582/
• Longitudinal deep multi-omics profiling in a CLN3 - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41775934/
• Spatiotemporally controlled restoration of GAS6 signaling via mRNA therapy promotes scarless healing in preclinical models. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41741452/
• Experimental comparisons of optical coherence tomography-based versus angiography-based time-averaged wall shear stress estimations. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41718817/
• Activation of the YAP1/pSTAT3/NRP1 axis in peritendinous sensory nerves promotes tendon healing. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41706840/
• Feasibility and histological analysis of multi-hole versus fully covered self-expandable metallic stents in a porcine model of hilar biliary obstruction. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41703023/
• Metabolic Syndrome Predisposes Ossabaw Minipig Retina to an Early Neurodegenerative Milieu. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41744801/
• Absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion of SUL-138 in rats and minipigs. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41690530/
• Comparison of vascular remodeling between a bioresorbable poly-L-lactic acid scaffold and a bare metal stent: a 6-month angiography and intravascular ultrasound analysis in porcine iliac arteries. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41684102/
• Scutellarin-eluting stents attenuate coronary restenosis by inhibiting the abnormal proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells through suppression of NF-κB signaling. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41720001/
• Parenteral vaccination with an adjuvanted mRNA vaccine induces protective mucosal immunity against rotavirus in neonatal mice. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41671339/
• In Vitro Percutaneous Absorption of Dehydroacetic Acid and Benzoic Acid From Pig Skin Using the Franz Diffusion Cell System. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41666436/
• Preclinical serial shear stress analysis of a novel strut-free fibrillated bioresorbable polymeric endoluminal graft. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41725940/
• Magnetically controlled delivery capsule endoscopy for precise drug delivery to intestinal lesions. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41649738/
• A dual-functional hydrogel scaffold promotes periodontal bone regeneration through stem cell recruitment and osteogenic growth peptide delivery. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41666771/
• Yucatan Miniswine Model of Atrial Fibrillation: Clinical Relevance. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41637443/
• The Role of Testosterone in Atherosclerosis: View From Cell Cultures and Animal Models. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41636984/
• Sprayable gelatin microparticles prevent delayed gastric bleeding in an anticoagulated swine model. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41634309/
• Thermostable hyaluronic acid-based dissolving microneedles with high-loading capacity: design, optimisation, and transdermal delivery of anti-ageing ingredients. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41628877/
• Transcriptomic Profiling of Diabetic Porcine Wound Healing Model Identifies Key Metabolic, Inflammatory, and Oxidative Stress Pathways. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41684941/
• Biological equivalence of additive manufacturing titanium vs conventional implants in peri-implantitis - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41637352/
• Transgluteal vs. Anterior and Posterior Approaches for Porcine Model of Irreparable Acetabular Labral Tear: A Comparative Study on Feasibility and Safety. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41583542/
• Intra-articular Delivery of Recombinant Interleukin-1 Receptor Antagonist Protein (Anakinra) Enhances Graft Function in a Porcine Model of Osteochondral Repair. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41562410/
• Autopsy cases of aortic dissection, myxomatous valve degeneration, and ventricular septal defect in pet minipigs. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41560702/
• Intelligent Soft Opto-Magnetic Robot for Minimally Invasive Interventional Therapy. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41560633/
• Amniotic Membrane (AM) Covered Airway Stent Mitigates Airway Injury and Complications: A Comparative In Vivo Study in a Porcine Model. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41549996/
• A mobile system for whole eye perfusion supporting retinal function and surgery. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41625069/
• Peri-implant disease pathogenesis animal models: Consensus report of Workgroup 1 of the IADR Implantology Research Group Best Evidence Consensus Symposium on Peri-Implant Disease and Its Treatment. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41531395/
• Wnt3a promotes in situ dentin formation through NKD1-MSX1 axis-mediated odontogenic differentiation of dental pulp stem cells. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41526338/
• Single-cell transcriptomic profiling identifies therapeutic subpopulations of adipose-derived mesenchymal stromal cells for human keloid management. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41511717/
• Single-staged in vivo co-transplantation of autologous muscular and urothelial micrografts as a composite tissue tube for urogenital reconstruction. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41511495/
• Developing and Assessing the Performance of a Machine Learning Model for Analyzing Drinking Behaviors in Minipigs for Experimental Research. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41600198/
• Mandibular extracellular vesicles mediate morphogenesis and mineralization of tooth germs in miniature swine through the miR-206/HDAC4 signaling axis. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41561635/
• Remodeling of three-dimensional genome architecture in cardiac development and aging. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41491459/
• Reprogramming the Myocardial Infarction Conductive Microenvironment with Superconductive Ionic Patch for Cardiac Function Repair. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41486744/
• Integrin inhibition facilitates fibrocartilaginous transformation in connective tissue in osteoarthritis. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41481715/
• Enhancing the Efficacy of Poly-l-Lactic Acid Injections With Micro-Focused Ultrasound: An Evaluation of Combined Treatment and Optimal Sequence. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41532713/
• Establishment of a Step-down FSH Superovulation Protocol in Microminipigs for Zygote Collection. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41482416/
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