Numerical chromosome disorders in the common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus)--comparison between two captive colonies

Area of Science:

• Primate genetics
• Cytogenetics
• Environmental toxicology

Background:

• Marmoset chromosomal analyses were conducted in two colonies: Deutsches Primatenzentrum (DPZ) and Biomedical Primate Research Centre (BPRC).
• DPZ utilizes chlorine-based disinfectants, while BPRC does not employ chemical disinfection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the rates of chromosomal non-disjunction, polyploidy, and endoreduplication in marmosets from DPZ and BPRC.
• To assess the potential impact of environmental disinfection practices on chromosomal integrity in marmosets.

Main Methods:

• G-banding technique was used for chromosomal analysis.
• Quantification of chromosomal non-disjunction, polyploidy, and endoreduplication rates in bone marrow and lymphocytes/blood samples.

Main Results:

• DPZ marmosets exhibited higher mean rates of non-disjunction (7.6% bone marrow, 11.3% lymphocytes) and polyploidy (2.5% bone marrow, 0.8% blood) compared to BPRC (1.3% leucocytes, 0.2% blood).
• Endoreduplication was observed in DPZ marmosets (0.5% bone marrow, 0.8% leucocytes) but not in BPRC.
• Chromosomal disorder levels were significantly elevated in the DPZ colony.

Conclusions:

• Elevated chromosomal disorders in DPZ marmosets suggest a link to environmental chemical disinfection.
• The findings highlight the potential genotoxic effects of disinfectants on primate chromosomal health.
• Further research is warranted to confirm the specific impact of disinfectants on marmoset chromosomal stability.