Translational research on pandemic virus infection using nonhuman primate models

Area of Science:

• Infectious disease research
• Translational medicine
• Virology

Background:

• Nonhuman primate (NHP) models are vital for infectious disease research due to genetic, metabolic, and immunological similarities to humans.
• NHP models have been instrumental in studying past pandemics, including H1N1 influenza and COVID-19.
• Despite limitations, NHP models offer valuable insights for vaccine and therapeutic development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the utility of NHP models in infectious disease research, specifically for influenza and COVID-19.
• To highlight the benefits of NHP models in predicting viral pathogenicity and evaluating medical countermeasures.
• To support future research on vaccines and therapies for emerging infectious diseases.

Main Methods:

• Review of findings from studies utilizing NHP models for influenza and COVID-19.
• Analysis of NHP model contributions to understanding disease progression and treatment efficacy.
• Synthesis of data to demonstrate the value of NHP models in preclinical research.

Main Results:

• NHP models accurately predict the pathogenicity of emerging viruses.
• NHP models effectively evaluate the efficacy of vaccines and therapeutics.
• NHP models facilitate the selection of promising vaccine and drug candidates for clinical trials.

Conclusions:

• NHP models are indispensable tools for advancing infectious disease research and pandemic preparedness.
• The use of NHP models accelerates the development of effective vaccines and treatments.
• This review underscores the critical role of NHP models in addressing current and future infectious disease threats.