There is a need for large animal models to study physio pathological
processes and to evaluate new therapeutics for use in
humans [1–3]. In this regard the ideal model should closely
represent human anatomy, physiology, metabolism and pathological
processes. Other important considerations include the size,
lifespan, availability and costs to produce and maintain. Because
swine fulfill most of these conditions, there has been increasing
interest to develop swine as models for biomedical research. For
instance, both transgenic and non-transgenic pigs have been used
as models in many fronts including surgery, nutrition, metabolism,
xenotransplantation, and cell and tissue regeneration