Using ethological principles to study psychosocial influences on coronary atherosclerosis in monkeys

Studies with male cynomolgus monkeys suggest that atherosclerosis is potentiated among individuals that are habitually successful in their aggressive encounters with social strangers, thereby retaining dominant social status in an unstable environment. Further, the increased risk of atherosclerosis experienced by such animals is related, in part, to the autonomic (sympathetic) adjustments they make while responding to the demands of retaining dominant status. These data provide clear support for the hypothesis that psychosocial factors influence disease pathogenesis via neuroendocrine mediation. Additionally, they provide initial evidence in favor of Jim Henry's suggestion that the pattern of neuroendocrine response to environmental challenge depends on the type and degree of control an animal can exert in such circumstances (Henry & Stephens 1977).