Related Experiment Videos
Malaria, arbovirus and hepatitis infections in Macaca fascicularis from Malaysia
J Le Bras1, B Larouze, M Geniteau
1Institut de Médecine et d'Epidémiologie Tropicales, Hôpital Claude Bernard, Paris, France.
Abstract:
Naturally occurring malaria, arbovirus infection and hepatitis in monkeys can be a hazard for the investigator and might interfere with the outcome of experiments. 63 young adult Macaca fascicularis from Malaysia were screened for these infections. About 1 year after their arrival in France, parasitaemia due to Plasmodium spp., was present in 6.4% of the animals and specific antibodies in 55.5%. 19 of 35 initially positive monkeys were tested again 2 years later. Parasitaemia was found in 1 of 4 monkeys and antibodies in 11 of 19 monkeys which were initially positive. 9 of the monkeys initially tested had low titres of antibodies to the Flavivirus genus. All animals were negative for the hepatitis B surface antigen and anti-HBc. The prevalence of IgG antibodies against hepatitis A was 46.0%. The implications in terms of control are discussed.
Insights
Naturally occurring malaria and hepatitis A infections were detected in Macaca fascicularis monkeys imported for research. These findings highlight the need for careful screening and control measures to protect both animal welfare and experimental integrity.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Primatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Naturally occurring infections in research animals pose risks to investigators and experimental validity.
- Macaca fascicularis monkeys are commonly used in biomedical research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To screen imported Macaca fascicularis monkeys for malaria, arbovirus, and hepatitis infections.
- To assess the prevalence of these infections in a research setting.
Main Methods:
- Screening of 63 young adult Macaca fascicularis from Malaysia upon arrival in France.
- Parasitological and serological testing for Plasmodium spp., Flavivirus, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis A.
- Follow-up testing of initially positive animals after 1 and 2 years.
Main Results:
- Plasmodium spp. parasitemia was found in 6.4% of monkeys, with 55.5% having specific antibodies.
- Prevalence of IgG antibodies against Hepatitis A was 46.0%.
- Low titres of antibodies to the Flavivirus genus were detected in 9 monkeys; all were negative for Hepatitis B markers.
Conclusions:
- Significant prevalence of malaria and hepatitis A infections in imported Macaca fascicularis monkeys.
- The findings underscore the importance of rigorous health screening and control strategies.
- Managing endemic infections in research primates is crucial for reliable experimental outcomes.