Chapter 13 - Nonhuman Primate Models of Human Disease

Abstract

Animal models of human disease are commonly used in exploratory and efficacy studies, but their use in toxicity testing is less common and largely limited to studies designed to understand the significance or mechanism of an adverse effect identified in conventional preclinical toxicology screening. In some cases, however, it may be more appropriate to use an animal model of disease, rather than a healthy animal, for toxicity and safety assessment studies. This chapter reviews some common disease conditions that are of general interest for efficacy and safety testing in translational pharmaceutical research or for which toxicity testing using nonhuman primate models of disease may be scientifically justified. Specific conditions discussed include diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, metabolic disease, diseases of aging, female reproductive disorders, immunosuppressive conditions, and malaria.