Genomic Tools for the Use of Nonhuman Primates in Translational Research

Nonhuman primates (NHPs) are important preclinical models for understanding the etiology of human diseases and for developing therapies and vaccines to cure or eliminate disease. Most human diseases have genetic components. Therefore, to be of maximal utility, the NHP species used for translational science should be as well characterized in regard to their genome and transcriptome as possible. This article reviews the current status of genomic information for the five NHP species used most often in translational research: rhesus macaque, cynomolgus macaque, vervet (African green) monkey, baboon, and marmoset NHP. These species have published whole genome sequences (with the exception of the baboon) and relatively well-characterized transcriptomes. Some have also been characterized in regard to specific genetic loci that are particularly related to translational concerns, such as the major histocompatability complex and the cytochrome P40 genes. Genomic resources to aid in stratifying captive populations in regard to genetic and phenotypic characteristics have been developed as an aid to enhancing reproducibility and facilitating more efficient use of animals. Taken together, the current genomic resources and numerous studies currently underway to improve them should enhance the value of NHPs as preclinical models of human disease.