Journal of Clinical Toxicology
Open Access
ISSN: 2161-0495
ISSN: 2161-0495
Sofiene Mhedhbi
Scientific Tracks Abstracts: J Clinic Toxicol
T he minipig has been a well-recognized experimental animal model in the preclinical research field for many years and has gained in massive importance over the last decade, especially in Europe (e.g., Re Think project, Minipig Research Forum meetings). Minipigs are increasingly being used as an alternative to the traditional non-rodent species in nonclinical sciences because of the physiological similarities with human organs. The minipig is a model of choice especially for skin tolerance and cardiovascular safety assessment. By experience and with regards to the data found in the literature, it has been proven now that this animal model can be used for all traditional and less common routes of administration. In dermal toxicity testing, the minipig remains the gold-standard model. With the implementation of new ethical approaches and innovative handling techniques (positive reinforcement), it has become a popular species, leading to the transformation of many dog into minipig units across the pharmaceutical industry. To note, the total costs for a minipig study and the amount of compound needed are not significantly higher than a dog study. However, the lack of antibodies/macromolecules placental transfer in reproductive toxicology may limit its role for some products, despite the close sequence homology with humans. In addition, for some non-pharmaceutical product categories, it is explicitly indicated that the dog is the first choice as a non-rodent species for toxicity testing (biocides, pesticides); for historical reasons rather than scientific rationale. Furthermore, there is still a need for additional comparative and historical data for a better human chemical-induced toxicities prediction
Sofiene Mhedhbi has completed his DVM in 1998 from the Veterinary School of Tunis, Tunisia followed by the French national competition for veterinary diploma recognition in 1999. In addition, he holds an M.Sc. in Pharmacology (University of Paris V, 2000), an M.Sc. in Pharmacokinetics & Drug Metabolism (University of Paris XI, 2000) and an M.Sc. in Veterinary Ophthalmology (Veterinary school of Toulouse, France, 2004). He started his professional career as a toxicologist in a preclinical CRO (CiToxLab) and he is acting since 2003 as a senior toxicologist, veterinarian and ophthalmologist in a successful innovation-based company focused on dermatological disorders.