pig model(★)
Our research group develops genetically modified pigs for medical research, with the goal of supporting the creation of new therapies and medical technologies. Pigs share many anatomical and physiological similarities with humans, making them valuable models for translational and preclinical studies.
We build and maintain the core technologies needed to produce these pigs, including embryo manipulation, preservation of embryos and reproductive cells, genetic modification and genome editing, and pig reproductive biology. A key strength of our group is our fully integrated system, which covers the entire process from genetic modification to breeding and stable supply of animals. In Japan, only a few research groups have this end-to-end capability.
Using the pig models we have developed, we conduct research in several major medical fields. These include cancer therapy development using tumor-bearing pigs derived from immunodeficient pigs, regenerative medicine research using immunodeficient pigs, and treatment development for atherosclerosis using hyperlipidemia model pigs. We have established multiple pig lines, including immunodeficient pigs, and actively promote collaboration through joint research with external institutions and technology transfer to industry, supporting both basic research and practical medical applications.
