Non-Human Primates

Non-human primates (NHPs) are extensively used in biomedical and behavioral research due to their physiological and genetic similarities to humans. This article explores the use of NHPs in research, focusing on the types of studies, species used, ethical considerations, and regulatory frameworks.

Rationale for Use

Physiological Similarity to Humans

NHPs are crucial for understanding human biology and medicine, especially in areas like brain function and infectious disease prevention.

Drug Testing and Vaccine Development

NHPs play a vital role in the safety testing of new drugs and in the development of vaccines due to their close resemblance to human organ systems and immune responses.

Global Usage and Statistics

More than 100,000 primates are used annually worldwide in biomedical experiments, with over half in the USA, a tenth in Europe, and the rest in Japan and other countries. Despite this, they represent a tiny proportion of total animals used in experiments.

Types of Studies Involving Non-Human Primates

Safety Testing

About 67% of NHPs are used for safety testing of new drugs, substances, and devices, particularly for human medicine and dentistry.

Biological and Medical Research

Approximately 14% of NHPs are used in fundamental biological research, while another 13% are involved in the development of medical and dental products and devices.

Species of Non-Human Primates Used

NHPs include simians (monkeys and apes) and prosimians (like lemurs). The most frequently used species are the long-tailed macaque and the rhesus monkey. In Europe, there is a trend towards using more New World monkeys and fewer prosimians. Great Apes have not been used in the EU since 2005.

Ethical Considerations and Regulation

The use of NHPs in research raises significant ethical concerns. In the EU, animal experimentation is strictly regulated. Additionally, the pharmaceutical industry reports that less than 0.1% of NHPs experience “substantial” suffering in experiments.

Breeding and Use of Captive-Bred Primates

Nearly all primates in experiments are captive-bred. Wild-caught animals are rarely used but are sometimes necessary to prevent inbreeding. Strategies like exchanging wild-caught males between facilities are considered to maintain genetic diversity without relying heavily on wild captures.

Conclusion

NHPs remain integral to scientific research, but their use is surrounded by ethical debates, regulatory oversight, and a push towards finding alternative methods. The balance between scientific advancement and humane treatment of these animals continues to be a key focus in the scientific community.

See Also

• Model Organisms