Summary:
This month’s newsletter highlights several intriguing studies that advance our understanding of minipig models in biomedical research. These articles showcase advances in drug delivery systems, insights into metabolic diseases, and the genetic factors contributing to health resilience in Göttingen Minipigs. Together, these findings underscore the importance of minipigs in translating research to human conditions.
Editorial note
This newsletter compiles the most important and relevant scientific publications on Göttingen Minipigs from June and July 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.
Article 1
Suprachoroidal Delivery of Anti-Angiogenic Peptide Microparticles Enables Sustained Activity with Favorable Ocular Safety.
This study evaluates the sustained release of anti-angiogenic peptide AXT107 using microparticles delivered via the suprachoroidal route in Göttingen Minipigs. Previous formulations showed limited efficacy; thus, microparticles were developed to improve delivery efficiency. In a model of laser-induced choroidal neovascularisation, MP-AXT107 reduced neovascular areas by approximately 60% compared to vehicle controls. A 9-month toxicology study revealed transient increases in intraocular pressure but no long-term adverse effects. The localisation of the peptide within ocular tissues further supports the potential for sustained activity and safety, paving the way for future clinical application.
• Journal: bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology
• Authors: Mirando AC, Lima E Silva R, Shen J, Robinson TJ, Green JJ, Campochiaro PA, Popel AS, Pandey NB
• Publication date: 2026-07-05
• Original paper: DOI https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42427701/
Article 2
Pharmacokinetics and dosimetry of radiolabeled FAP-targeting single-domain antibody 4AH29 in Göttingen Minipigs.
This study focuses on the pharmacokinetics and dosimetry of 4AH29, a single-domain antibody aimed at FAP, tested in Gottingen minipigs. The biodistribution of radiolabeled forms was evaluated through SPECT/CT imaging, demonstrating good tolerability and fast clearance via renal excretion. Extrapolated dosimetry suggested safe administration levels for clinical applications. The data, derived through OLINDA software, support the antibody’s potential use in treating cancers and contribute valuable information on absorbed doses in critical organs, aiding in the design of human studies.
• Journal: Nuclear medicine and biology
• Authors: Dumauthioz N, Navarro L, Berdal M, Nagachinta S, Eersels J, Gaspariunaite V, Antunes ARP, Dewulf J, Massa S, Jrgensen T, Kristensen LK, Starostka T, Mantzilas D, Lahoutte T, D’Huyvetter M
• Publication date: 2026-06-25
• Original paper: DOI https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42364406/
Article 3
Multispecies transcriptome analysis identifies networks protecting against MASLD in Göttingen Minipigs.
This research aimed to elucidate the mechanisms behind the resistance of Gottingen minipigs to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). By conducting a comprehensive transcriptome analysis, the study identified 692 uniquely expressed genes linked to various metabolic pathways. Notably, several transcription factors and secreted proteins emerged as key players in this protective network. Weighted gene coexpression network analysis indicated that these factors regulate a significant proportion of differentially expressed genes, suggesting that the transcriptional programinvolves specific mediators that may inform strategies for MASLD prevention and treatment.
• Journal: Journal of lipid research
• Authors: Gottmann P, Jonas W, Renner S, Philippou-Massier J, Hommel T, Dahlhoff M, Zeigerer A, Wolf E, Vogel H, Schurmann A
• Publication date: 2026-06-25
• Original paper: DOI https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42349720/
Article 4
Chamber-specific cardiac proteome remodeling in a Gottingen minipig model of obesity and diabetes.
This research explores cardiac proteome remodeling in Gottingen minipigs subjected to various dietary regimes related to obesity and type 2 diabetes. Using untargeted proteomics, the study identified approximately 200-300 proteins with altered expression dependent on dietary intervention and heart chamber. Notably, metabolic pathways related to protein metabolism and mitochondrial function were disrupted, suggesting specific proteomic profiles associated with early cardiac changes. The findings imply a complex interplay between obesity, diabetes, and cardiac physiology, indicating that targeted interventions could mitigate these effects in an early disease context.
• Journal: Cardiovascular diabetology
• Authors: Gallero S, Voldstedlund CT, Krog S, Ludvigsen TP, Olsen LH, Jensen TE
• Publication date: 2026-06-16
• Original paper: DOI https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42304349/
Article 5
Electrospun Nanofiber Oral Thin Film Platform for Sublingual Peptide Delivery: A Promising Alternative to Conventional Semaglutide Formulations.
The study aims to evaluate an electrospun nanofiber thin film as a new platform for sublingual semaglutide delivery, comparing its efficacy against conventional administration routes in Göttingen Minipigs. The results showed that the sublingual films led to a 24.9% attenuation in weight gain, outperforming oral tablets. These improvements in weight management were accompanied by enhanced C-peptide and insulin responses, suggesting better metabolic control. Although limited by a small sample size and short duration, this research lays the groundwork for future studies on innovative delivery methods for peptide-based medications.
• Journal: Diabetes, obesity & metabolism
• Authors: Sagar G, Stranska V, Stranska D, Daams R, Taavoniku I, Cheong RY, Madsen LB
• Publication date: 2026-06-15
• Original paper: DOI https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42297758/
Quick Links to other recent and relevant publications using different types of minipigs
• Muscle activity and airflow dynamics upon gradual weight-gain volumetric enlargement or acute surgical reduction of the tongue base during chewing and swallowing. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42525674/
• Integrated Whole-Genome Resequencing and Transcriptomic Analyses to Reveal Breed-Specific Selection Signatures of Cardiac-Related Genes in Wuzhishan Pigs. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42510760/
• Dynamics of oropharyngeal structures during respiration with the volume-altered tongue base of minipigs. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42484237/
• Cardiovascular and central nervous system risk in astronauts: the minipig as a physiologically relevant radiation model. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42448713/
• Jaw tone dynamics across varying depths of anesthesia in a swine model. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42516300/
• Effects of a kennel conditioning protocol on transport-induced stress in minipigs: insights from heart rate variability and salivary cortisol. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42430089/
• Enhancement of Collagen and Elastic Fibers by Direct Contact Cooling-Based Monopolar Radiofrequency in a Minipig Model. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42445669/
• Hybrid mechanistic-machine learning PK/PD models with digital biomarkers: from cage to clinic. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42518344/
• Transcriptomic Profiling of Diabetic Porcine Wound Healing Model Identifies Key Metabolic, Inflammatory, and Oxidative Stress Pathways. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42394302/
• Effects of Volumetric Alterations of the Tongue Base on Craniofacial Growth in the Adult Minipig. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42387984/
• Bioresponsive microneedle stent provides anastomosis and postoperative adjuvant therapy in preclinical resectable intestinal diseases. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42384775/
• Comparative Morphometric Study of the Osseous Labyrinth in Humans and Animal Models Using Centerline Analysis. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42446335/
• Integrative multi-omics analysis of growth plate regulation underlying body size in miniature pigs. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42373763/
• Discovery of PIPE-791, A Potent and Brain-Penetrant Lysophosphatidic Acid Receptor 1 Antagonist with Slow Tight Binding Characteristics for the Treatment of Neuroinflammatory Disorders - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42370792/
• Development of models of preclinical stage 2 bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw in non-rodent mammals using zoledronate: A systematic review. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42372398/
• Long-term evaluation of plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) surface-modified WE43MEO magnesium alloy screws and plates reveals safe and controlled degradation in a 18-month minipig model. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42388350/
• Biomarkers and therapies associated with Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42309396/
• EP4 agonist KMN-159 induces osteogenesis in rodent and porcine dental models. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42309246/
• Translational Animal Models in Colitis: From Rodents to Pig and Minipig Platforms. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42353131/
• Human CD24⁺ dental papilla cells are competent seed cells for dentin-pulp regeneration via BMP2/SIRT1 axis - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42285987/
• The effects of magnesium infusions on haemodynamic and nociceptive variables in minipigs undergoing thoracotomy. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42274336/
• International Harmonization of Nomenclature and Diagnostic Criteria (INHAND): Non-proliferative and proliferative lesions of fish - Chapter 1. Introduction. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42416796/
• Ion-Responsive Microneedles Delivering Subtype-Specific Mitochondrial Extracellular Vesicles from HEY1+ Cardiomyocytes for Cardiac Repair in Bama Minipigs with Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42370197/
• Performance of a new bone-level tapered two-piece zirconia implant manufactured by injection moulding: A pilot preclinical study in minipig mandibles. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42268055/
• Miniaturized subcutaneous cellular implants for sustained therapeutic protein delivery in resource-limited settings. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42327228/
• Circumferential strain recovery after human cardiomyocyte transplantation in minipigs using a novel frequency-based method for myocardial tagging quantification. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42250885/
• Integrated transcriptomics identifies ER stress-associated apoptosis in post-resuscitation AKI and supports early Dl-3-n-butylphthalide-associated renoprotection in a porcine TCA model. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42328631/
• An optimized engineered bacterium for tyrosinemia type 1 therapy: A multi-species preclinical study. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42226462/
• Research and development of novel embolization materials and study on their feasibility of preventing T2EL after EVAR abdominal aortic aneurysm. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42306591/
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