The Minipig in Biomedical Research is a comprehensive resource for research scientists on the potential and use of the minipig in basic and applied biomedical research, and the development of drugs and chemicals. Written by acknowledged experts in the field, and drawing on the authors global contacts and experience with regulatory authorities and the pharmaceutical and other industries, this accessible manual ranges widely over the biological, scientific, and practical uses of the minipig in the laboratory. Its coverage extends from the minipig s origins, anatomy, genetics, immunology, and physiology to its welfare, health, and husbandry; practical dosing and examination procedures; surgical techniques; and all areas of toxicity testing and the uses of the minipig as a disease model. Regulatory aspects of its use are considered.

The reader will find an extensive amount of theoretical and practical information in the pharmacology; ADME and toxicology chapters which will help scientists and managers when deciding which species to use in basic research; drug discovery and pharmacology; and toxicology studies of chemicals, biotechnology products and devices. The book discusses regulatory uses of minipigs in the evaluation of human and veterinary pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and other classes of xenobiotics. It describes features of normal health, normal laboratory values, and common diseases. It also carefully elucidates ethical and legal considerations in their supply, housing, and transport. The result is an all-inclusive and up to date manual about the experimental uses of the minipig that describes How to and Why and What to expect in the normal, combining enthusiasm and experience with critical assessment of its values and potential problems."

Considerable scientific and political interest has been expressed, parallelling public concern about the effects of chemicals on the immune system and the implications of those effects for health. Coupled with speculation about the magnitude and extent of the problem is discussion of needs for predictive testing and regulatory control measures. The first international seminar on the immunological system as a target for toxic damage was held in Luxembourg in 1984. It was organized by the International Programme on Chemical Safety (United Nations Environment Programme-International Labour Office World Health Organization) and the Commission of the European Communities with the support of the US Environmental Protection Agency and the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (USA) and the participation of the International Society of Immunopharmacology. In view of the perceived importance of imrnunotoxicity, it was considered necessary to organize a follow-up meeting. Thus, an international workshop on the immunotoxicity of metals and immuno toxicology was held in Hanover, Federal Republic of Germany, on 6-10 November 1989.

International Symposium. IFPMA Symposium, Geneva 30-31 October 1984