A baboon (Papio hamadryas) model of insulin-dependent diabetes

Over a period of four years, streptozocin has been used to induce diabetes in 10 baboons, all of whom are insulin dependent. We describe our experience with their husbandry, induction of diabetes, insulin therapy, metabolic control and growth rate. Streptozocin dosage of 60 mg/kg readily induces hyperglycemia with minimal hepatic or renal toxicity. Using a once daily injection of mixed short and intermediate acting insulins at a dosage of 2-4 U/kg, it is possible to maintain a degree of metabolic control similar to that attained in patients.