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Published on: August 31, 2013
Chronic lyme disease in the rhesus monkey
E D Roberts1, R P Bohm, F B Cogswell
1Department of Pathology, Tulane Regional Primate Research Center, Tulane University Medical Center, Covington, Louisiana.
Summary
Chronic Borrelia burgdorferi infection in rhesus monkeys caused arthritis and peripheral neuropathy. This animal model effectively replicates human Lyme disease, aiding future research into its pathogenesis.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
Background:
- Previous studies detailed early Borrelia burgdorferi infection in rhesus monkeys.
- This study investigates the chronic phase of Lyme disease in the same animal model.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate clinical, pathological, and immunological features of chronic Lyme disease in rhesus macaques.
- To establish a relevant animal model for studying Lyme disease pathogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Five rhesus macaques were infected with Borrelia burgdorferi via Ixodes scapularis ticks.
- Clinical signs, pathology, immune complexes, and spirochete localization were assessed 6 months post-infection.
- Western blot, immunohistochemistry, and PCR were utilized for analysis.
Main Results:
- All five infected monkeys developed chronic arthritis, primarily affecting knee and elbow joints.
- Severe joint damage included articular cartilage necrosis and degenerative arthropathy.
- Peripheral neuropathy was observed in all infected animals, linked to immune complexes in severe cases.
Conclusions:
- Rhesus macaque model exhibits chronic Lyme disease aspects similar to humans.
- The model is valuable for studying Lyme arthritis and neuroborreliosis pathogenesis.
