Alkaptonuria in a cynomolgus monkey (Macaca fascicularis)

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Genetics
• Primate Research

Background:

• Alkaptonuria is a rare inherited metabolic disorder.
• It results from a deficiency in the enzyme homogentisic acid oxidase.
• This leads to the accumulation of homogentisic acid.

Observation:

• An eight-year-old wild-caught Cynomolgus monkey presented with urine that darkened upon standing.
• This is a characteristic sign of alkaptonuria.
• No other symptoms like skin pigmentation or arthritis were noted.

Findings:

• The monkey was diagnosed with congenital alkaptonuria.
• The cause was identified as a lack of homogentisic acid oxidase.
• Homogentisic acid was detected in the animal's urine.

Implications:

• This case highlights a rare metabolic disorder in non-human primates.
• It provides insights into the genetic basis of alkaptonuria.
• Further research may explore therapeutic strategies for this condition.