The Animal Model Core & Comparative Orthopedic Research Lab is part of the Institute for Medical Translation at Penn Vet New Bolton Center. It functions as an ecosystem for medical translation and multidisciplinary collaboration providing a bridge to support the continuum from discovery to invention to innovation.
Our group leads, supports and collaborates on many federal and industry funded projects at the intersection of science and the rapid advancements in health-care technology. This multidisciplinary collaboration provides an immersive experience for mentoring of graduate and undergraduate students in the translational and regulatory sciences through our unique training opportunities.
Our SERVICE CORE designs and executes studies from proof of concept to pivotal IND/IDE-enabling trials (GLP/VICH-9) in support of regulatory submissions and offers a wide variety of animal models (Animal Core).
Our RESEARCH CORE initiates and collaborates with academia on hypothesis driven research using animal models in support of investigations in regenerative medicine, tissue engineering, orthopedic trauma, spinal deformities, microbial-host interactions and biofilm infections.
The core is staffed by 4-5 veterinarians with surgical experience, a Study Director (GLP), a Quality Assurance and Quality Control Officer (GLP), 2-3 research technicians, and 5-10 research assistants. Our staff are responsible for day-to-day operations (24/7 365 days a year), project design and management, animal care, data collection, and evaluation of in vivo and ex vivo components of a given study.
Our program is supported by the various specialty services at the New Bolton Center Large Animal Hospital, including Anesthesia, Radiology, Emergency and Critical Care, Surgery, Microbiology and Veterinary Pathology. Studies starting on a small scale may take advantage of our large biobank of specimens prior to moving into in vivo trials which may culminate in pivotal non-clinical trials (GLP/VICH GL-9) in support of FDA or OUS-FDA submissions. We host PI’s, trainees, and sponsors during clinical procedures to support and enrich their experience in a cross-functional team setting. This animal model core platform at Penn Vet New Bolton Center provides opportunities across most common model species (rodents, rabbits, mini-pig, Yorkshire pig, sheep, goats, lama/alpaca, calf/cow and horse).
We have a deep and multifaceted subject matter expertise and logistical capabilities in the translational research enterprise in support of your in vivo research. Together, we benefit principal investigators, associated faculty, and industry sponsors to continue to pioneer, enhance, and support the translational research enterprise of the University of Pennsylvania and beyond.
