Emerging and reemerging infectious diseases of nonhuman primates in the laboratory setting

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Pathology
• Primate Medicine
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Laboratory nonhuman primate colonies face persistent infectious disease threats, including known agents like measles virus and Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and newly discovered viruses such as retroperitoneal fibromatosis-associated herpesvirus.
• Established biosecurity measures are often insufficient to prevent sporadic outbreaks of certain diseases.
• Newly identified pathogens frequently emerge due to factors like experimental immunosuppression.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the pathology and pathogenesis of emerging and reemerging infectious diseases affecting laboratory nonhuman primates.
• To emphasize the importance of recognizing these diseases due to their impact on research outcomes and animal welfare.
• To discuss challenges in disease elimination, including importation and lack of diagnostic tools.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of pathology and pathogenesis of infectious diseases in laboratory nonhuman primates.
• Synthesis of information on emerging and reemerging pathogens.
• Discussion of challenges in disease control and elimination.

Main Results:

• Identified key infectious agents that continue to affect nonhuman primate colonies.
• Described the confounding effects of these diseases on experimental data and colony health.
• Highlighted the potential for zoonotic transmission of certain agents.
• Discussed difficulties in eliminating pathogens due to housing, importation, and diagnostic limitations.

Conclusions:

• Recognition and understanding of emerging and reemerging infectious diseases are crucial for laboratory nonhuman primate colonies.
• These diseases impact research validity, animal welfare, and pose potential zoonotic risks.
• Effective management requires ongoing surveillance and development of diagnostic assays.