Analysis of growth rate, haematologic, and biochemical parameters of Oncopigs

Abstract

Pigs are widely used as large animal models in biomedical research due to their physiological and anatomical similarity to humans. The Oncopig, a genetically engineered pig model harbouring Cre recombinase-inducible KRAS ^G12D and TP53 ^R167H transgenes, serves as a valuable model for cancer research. This study describes the generation of Oncopig breeding herds and provides a characterization of their growth rate, body size, and physiological parameters, including haematologic, biochemical, and coagulation profiles. Body weight and size were measured in male and female Oncopigs, and blood samples were collected at multiple time points from birth to one year of age. A total of 13 haematologic, 18 biochemical, and 3 coagulation parameters were analysed. While male and female Oncopigs had a comparable growth rate within the first 6 months of age, male Oncopigs exhibited a significantly higher growth rate between 6 and 12 months of age and a higher body weight at 12 months. The mean body weight at 6 months of age was 52.3 kg for male Oncopigs and 48.0 kg for female Oncopigs, while at 11 months of age it was 96.4 kg for male Oncopigs and 71.7 kg for female Oncopigs. Haematologic, biochemical, and coagulation parameters were analysed for Oncopigs under 6 months of age, over 6 months, and collectively for Oncopigs within a year of age. By providing comprehensive data on growth, haematologic, and serum biochemical parameters, this study provides a critical resource for researchers utilizing Oncopigs as large animal models for cancer research and other translational studies.

Keywords: Oncopig; cancer model; growth chart; haematologic and biochemical parameters; large animal model; transgenic pig.

Figure 1.

Mean body weight, length, and circumference of male and female Oncopigs from birth to one year of age based on linear mixed-effects models. Shaded areas represent 95% pointwise confidence bands around the mean. (A) Mean body weight (kg) of male (n = 4) and female (n = 6) Oncopigs from birth until nearly one year of age. (B) Mean body length (cm) of male (n = 4) and female (n = 6) Oncopigs from 1–12 months of age. (C) Mean body circumference (cm) of male (n = 4) and female (n = 6) Oncopigs from 1–12 months of age.