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IN THIS EPISODE
In this episode of the Research Forward podcast, host David Mayo interviews Adrian Zeltner, a leading expert in mini pig care, handling, anesthesia, and surgery, with extensive experience in the pharmaceutical and biomedical research industries. Adrian shares his unique career journey, from his beginnings in Switzerland to his time in New Zealand and eventual move to Denmark, where he became deeply involved in mini pig research.
The conversation delves into the various applications of mini pigs in biomedical research, highlighting their anatomical and physiological similarities to humans, which make them valuable models for studying cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, obesity, and dermatological conditions. Adrian explains the benefits of using mini pigs, including their manageable size and the ethical considerations in their care and use.
They also discuss the importance of proper handling, dosing, and training techniques to ensure animal welfare and the accuracy of research outcomes. Adrian emphasizes the role of continuous professional development and the need for refined surgical and anesthetic procedures to minimize stress and improve data quality.
The episode concludes with Adrian's insights on the future of biomedical research, advocating for the reduction and eventual elimination of animal use through advancements in alternative methods and technologies. This episode provides a comprehensive overview of the critical role mini pigs play in advancing medical science and the ongoing efforts to enhance animal welfare in research.
EPISODE NOTES
The Minipig in Biomedical Research, 2nd edition, Common surgical procedures for minipigs in biomedical research, Edited by Andrew Makin and Niels Christion Ganderup, to be published later in 2025
The following Technical Guides can be found at https://minipigs.dk:
Anaesthesia and analgesia of the Göttingen Minipig
Handling, Dosing and Training of the Göttingen Minipig
Catheters and VAP in the Göttingen Minipig
Acclimatisation, Socialisation and Welfare of Göttingen Minipigs
Management of Pregnant Göttingen Minipigs and Their Litter
You can reach Adrian Zeltner at his email, adrian@azecon.dk, or his website, www.azecon.dk.
About Adrian Zeltner
Adrian Zeltner is a distinguished expert in laboratory animal surgery. He is a founding member and was Vice-President of the European Academy of Laboratory Surgery (EALAS) Adrian is also a member and holds a qualification of the Academy of Surgical Research (ASR) in the USA. He is the owner of AZE Consulting, where he provides specialized surgical services and lectures in minipig housing, care, welfare, sampling, and dosing.
Zeltner has a rich background as a senior surgeon at Ellegaard Göttingen Minipigs in Denmark, where he worked for 18 years. His contributions include lecturing on animal training and refining surgical procedures, as well as organizing courses and workshops globally. He is dedicated to advancing surgical techniques and promoting animal welfare through his extensive experience and innovative approaches.