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Common and Not-So-Common Pathologic Findings of the Gastrointestinal Tract of Rhesus and Cynomolgus Macaques
Amanda L Johnson1, Rebekah I Keesler2, Anne D Lewis1
1Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, Oregon, USA.
Abstract:
Rhesus and cynomolgus macaques are the most frequently used nonhuman primate (NHP) species for biomedical research and toxicology studies of novel therapeutics. In recent years, there has been a shortage of laboratory macaques due to a variety of competing factors. This was most recently exacerbated by the surge in NHP research required to address the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)-coronavirus 2 pandemic. Continued support of these important studies has required the use of more varied cohorts of macaques, including animals with different origins, increased exposure to naturally occurring pathogens, and a wider age range. Diarrhea and diseases of the gastrointestinal tract are the most frequently occurring spontaneous findings in macaques of all origins and ages. The purpose of this review is to alert pathologists and scientists involved in NHP research to these findings and their impact on animal health and study endpoints, which may otherwise confound the interpretation of data generated using macaques.
Insights
Laboratory macaques, vital for research, face shortages. Gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea are common in diverse macaque populations, potentially impacting study results.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary pathology
- Nonhuman primate research
- Toxicology studies
Background:
- Rhesus and cynomolgus macaques are primary species for biomedical and toxicology research.
- Recent shortages of laboratory macaques have been exacerbated by the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.
- Increased use of diverse macaque cohorts (varied origins, pathogen exposure, age) is necessary.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight common gastrointestinal findings in macaques.
- To inform researchers and pathologists about potential impacts on animal health and study data.
- To prevent confounding of research results due to spontaneous macaque diseases.
Main Methods:
- Review of spontaneous findings in diverse macaque populations.
- Analysis of the prevalence of gastrointestinal diseases.
- Assessment of the impact on animal health and research endpoints.
Main Results:
- Diarrhea and other gastrointestinal diseases are the most frequent spontaneous findings in macaques.
- These findings occur across all macaque origins and age ranges.
- Such conditions can significantly affect animal health and study outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Pathologists and scientists must be aware of common macaque GI diseases.
- Understanding these findings is crucial for accurate interpretation of research data.
- Proactive management and consideration of GI health are essential in NHP studies.
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