Standardized laboratory animals their need. Why the nonhuman primate?

It is apparent that the need for laboratory animals will continue. In most instances, those currently in use have been standardized by the facility providing these species. The major exception is the nonhuman primate which comes to investigtors almost directly from its natural environment with a minimum of conditioning. Because of its close phylogenetic relationship to man, nonhuman primates have been used in increasing numbers in research programs. Therefore, an international effort must be made to provide guidelines for standardization. The suggestion has been made that WHO provide leadership in developing: 1) breeding programs in countries of origin as well as user countries for desired species, and 2) specific information that will provide the required mechanisms for establishing a standardilzed simian.