Day 6: Escape Artists, Playtime, and Benefits from Pigs

We all knew it was just a matter of time - that's right, the piglets have finally figured out how to walk through gate panels!  Today, they spent time exploring the greenhouse and running in and out from under the tables - it was HILARIOUS to say the least!

Ha! Caught in the middle of the act!

Many visitors came to see the little guys and gals today.  It was great because the piglets were overly rambunctious!  Aside from exploring the greenhouse, they investigated and interacted with the students as well.  Pigs, like most animals, are very curious about other creatures - including humans.  The piglets had a lot of fun using Sean as their jungle gym and play toy.

Sean is the 'Pig-Whisperer' and Austin is the goober in the background!

The boys are all tuckered out!  Nap time!

Check out this YouTube Video Clip of the Playful Piglets

Benefits of Pigs to Humans: From Food to Medicine!

Did you know? Pigs are very similar to humans in terms of physical features and compatibility... It's true!  From heart transplants, to insulin, and even thyroid hormones, pigs are extremely helpful in advancing the quality of life for humans!

Organ Transplants 

For years, researches have devised several tests to try and transplant the organs of animals into the body of a human - especially with heart transplants.  This is known as xenotransplantation.  While no fully successful transplants have happened, researchers and doctors are getting ever so close with newer technologies and methods.  Read more in this article: Animal Transplants coming 'soon'

Insulin

Diabetes is a major battle for many Americans.  To combat the imbalance of blood sugar, some individuals with diabetes need to take injections of insulin.  But, where does most insulin originate?  The history of insulin is long.  Since it's discovery in 1921, it has been one of the most studied molecules in history.  Essentially, the pancreas of an organism regulates blood glucose (sugar) levels through using insulin as a balance.  Insulin was the first human protein to be engineered through biotechnology.  Most animal based insulin hormones given to humans originates from cattle or pigs.  Pig insulin is ALMOST identical to that of humans - there is only one (1) amino acid that is different!

Thyroid Hormone

People who suffer from hypothyroidism are often given desiccated thyroid extract, which originates from the dried and powdered thyroid glands of cattle or pigs, but mostly pigs.  The earliest treatment was documented in 1891 and by 1934 it became a commercial treatment that has not shown any form of instability.    

So there you have it.  From sausage and bacon to xenotransplanation and insulin, pigs and humans have a harmonious relationship.  Stay tuned for more updates about Peaches and her piglets.  Don't forget to keep up-to-date at the Cumberland Valley FFA Facebook Page, Twitter, and Live Stream!