Development of genetically modified nonhuman primates toward models for translational research

Abstract

Since the genetic, metabolic, and physiological characteristics of nonhuman primates (NHPs) are very similar to those of humans, NHPs serve as excellent animal models for biomedical research. Recent advances in genetic engineering and assisted reproductive technologies related to NHPs have enabled the development of genetically modified NHP models for human disease related studies. The common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus) is a useful laboratory animal model that is suitable for generating genetically engineered models due to its unique reproductive characteristics, such as prolific breeding, relatively short gestation period and small body size. Genetically modified marmoset models may be used as critical intermediaries to accelerate the progression of various conceptual technologies and therapeutics from the basic research stage to the clinical application stage. The last decade has witnessed the growth of genetic engineering technologies pertaining to NHPs as well as new gene modification technologies, such as gene editing. Such technological advances have enabled the development of genetically engineered NHP disease models for translational research.