Abstract
The common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus), is a small nonhuman primate, which shows efficient reproduction and rapid postnatal growth. This species provides an ideal experimental animal model to study postnatal development of higher brain function. It is known that common marmosets typically give birth to twins under natural conditions. In captivity, births of triplets are common, although parents rarely succeed in rearing more than two offspring. In addition, some developmental studies require experimental conditions using isolated neonates from their parents. Thus, neonates are frequently raised by humans ever since they were born. During lactation period, however, diarrhea often emerges in marmoset neonates fed on conventional milk for humans, and dehydration after diarrhea is a leading cause of death in early neonates. Weaning rates are previously reported to be about 80%. Here we report an improved method for artificial rearing of the common marmoset. We have developed an original recipe of milk and protocol for feeding to increase weaning rate. Using our original milk, the neonates rarely suffered from severe diarrhea. In recent 2 years, continuous 17 neonates were successfully weaned in our laboratory. [J Physiol Sci. 2008;58 Suppl:S94]
