Embryofetal Development Studies in Göttingen Minipigs – Technical Feasibility and Special Considerations
The Göttingen Minipig is an established non-rodent model in reproductive and developmental toxicology, offering unique advantages for embryofetal development (EFD) studies. With its well-defined genetics, short organogenesis period, and sufficient historical background data, the minipig presents a scientifically robust alternative to rabbits—yet it remains underutilized due to technical considerations and practical challenges.
Join Scantox expert Sisse Ellemann-Laursen, MSc Pharm, ERT, Senior Study Director, Toxicology Science at Scantox for Embryofetal Development Studies in Göttingen Minipigs – Technical Feasibility and Special Considerations on 8 October, 2025 | 15:00 CEST (9:00 AM EDT) followed by a Q&A session.
This session will provide a detailed look at the biological characteristics of the minipig, study design requirements, and regulatory considerations for EFD studies, from estrous synchronization and mating strategies to dosing, caesarean sections, and fetal examinations. Practical insights from decades of Scantox’s experience—supported by one of the world’s largest historical datasets on minipig reproductive endpoints—will highlight both the advantages and the limitations of the model.
Whether you are actively planning reproductive toxicology studies or evaluating alternative non-rodent species for your pipeline, this webinar offers essential guidance to inform species choice, optimize study design, and ensure regulatory compliance.
Key Learning Objectives
- Understand the technical feasibility and considerations of conducting EFD studies in minipigs.
- Explore the biological and reproductive characteristics of the minipig relevant to EFD studies.
- Review study design, mating, and dosing protocols for regulatory compliance.
- Discuss practical aspects and challenges in executing minipig-based reproductive toxicology studies.
- Gain insights from Scantox’s historical database and case studies.
Meet The Presenter
Sisse Ellemann-Laursen, MSc Pharm, ERT is a senior study director with more than 17 years of experience in preclinical toxicology, spanning rodent and non-rodent models with particular expertise in reproductive and developmental studies in Göttingen Minipigs. At Scantox, Sisse partners with international clients and multidisciplinary teams to ensure complex toxicology programs deliver clear, decision-enabling outcomes
Her work emphasizes scientific rigor, regulatory compliance, and strong collaboration—ensuring that each study is conducted to the highest GLP standards while delivering the insights needed to progress development programs with confidence. In 2024, she earned certification as a European Registered Toxicologist (ERT), recognizing her scientific and professional standing within the field.
Sisse holds a Master of Pharmaceutical Sciences from the University of Copenhagen.