[Advance of gene-modified non-human primate models]

Area of Science:

• Life sciences
• Biomedical research
• Genetics

Background:

• Non-human primates are crucial models in life sciences and biomedical research.
• Advancements in gene manipulation technologies have enabled the creation of gene-modified monkeys.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the latest developments in generating gene-modified monkeys using lentivirus and programmable nucleases.
• To discuss current limitations and future trends in this field.

Main Methods:

• Review of gene modification techniques including lentivirus infection.
• Application of programmable nucleases such as zinc-finger nucleases (ZFN), transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALEN), and CRISPR-associated protein 9 (CRISPR-Cas9).

Main Results:

• Successful generation of gene-modified monkeys with altered gene expression (overexpression or loss of function).
• Identification of key challenges hindering widespread application: long sexual maturation period, off-target mutations, and founder mosaicism.

Conclusions:

• Gene-modified non-human primates hold significant potential for research.
• Addressing challenges related to maturation, specificity, and mosaicism is essential for advancing their application.