Animal Models for Henipavirus Research.

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Zoonotic Diseases
• Comparative Pathology

Background:

• Hendra virus (HeV) and Nipah virus (NiV) are highly pathogenic zoonotic viruses in the genus *Henipavirus* (HNV).
• Outbreaks cause severe respiratory and neurological disease with high mortality in humans and animals.
• No approved medical countermeasures exist for human use against HeV and NiV, necessitating research into pathogenesis and treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of existing animal models for HeV and NiV research.
• To discuss the strengths and limitations of each model for studying HNV pathogenesis, transmission, and countermeasure evaluation.
• To support the development of vaccines and therapeutics against henipaviruses.

Main Methods:

• Review of literature on animal models used in henipavirus research.
• Analysis of species including rodents, ferrets, nonhuman primates (NHPs), cats, dogs, horses, and swine.
• Evaluation of model suitability for pathogenesis, transmission, and countermeasure studies.

Main Results:

• Nonhuman primates (NHPs) exhibit the closest resemblance to human henipavirus disease.
• Other animal models, including rodents and ferrets, replicate specific key disease features.
• Various models offer distinct advantages for investigating different aspects of HeV and NiV infection.

Conclusions:

• Animal models are indispensable for advancing understanding of HNV pathogenesis and developing medical countermeasures.
• The choice of animal model depends on the specific research question, whether it be pathogenesis, transmission, or countermeasure efficacy.
• Continued research utilizing appropriate animal models is crucial for addressing the global biosecurity threat posed by henipaviruses.