Grant Number: P40OD012217

Research Emphasis/Objectives

The Caribbean Primate Research Center’s mission is to increase our scientific understanding of primate biology and behavior and undertake humane research that improves human health and welfare. In this regard, CPRC is committed to (a) providing the national and international scientific community with Indian-origin rhesus macaques with known background and of the same genetic pool, (b) providing a scientific scenario for studies of numerous diseases that afflict human health, and (c) conducting multidisciplinary collaborative studies on the life cycle of rhesus macaques as a biological model for humans.

Services Provided

We provide the following services and data to our investigators and partner researchers:

Demographic data: The demographic database of Cayo Santiago Field Station is based on daily visual census and includes over 60 years of data and over 11,000 rhesus monkeys. Data include ID, date of birth, date of death, social group, inter-group migration, and maternity.

Genetic data: The genetic database of the CPRC based on short tandem repeats (STRs) includes over 5,000 rhesus monkeys. Data are used for paternity and maternal confirmation. 

Skeleton collection: The collection consists of over 3,300 rhesus monkey skeletons (2,634 skeletons with known ID and life history). The Laboratory of Primate Morphology also offers skeletons of other 12 primate species, including patas, squirrel, pigtail, vervet, stump-tail, and tufted capuchin monkeys.

Molecular biology tools: The Virology Laboratory offers a set of molecular biology and bench services and tools for handling and processing samples, including real-time PCR, molecular cloning, SDS-PAGE, Western Blot, ELISA, PBMC's isolation and culture, cell proliferation, multiplex platform for cytokine detection by Luminex technology, RNA extraction, IFA experiments, and immunophenotyping and dendritic cells determination.

Immunology Core (IC): The IC is integrated into the Virology Laboratory. The IC acts as a service unit to other investigators conducting research projects at CPRC. The IC provides services in the areas of immunological assays using a state-of-the-art Bio-Plex MAGPIX, which integrates Luminex XMAP technology (Bio-Rad, Hercules, CA), and flow cytometry through the acquisition of an Attune Acoustic FACS (Life Technologies, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Waltham, MA) for cell phenotyping.

Contact Information

Caribbean Primate Research Center
Road 867 / Bo. Ingenio
In front of "Finca Ingenio"
Toa Baja, PR 00949
cprc.rcm.upr.edu

Co-Principal Investigators

PI: Dr. Carlos A. Sariol
Phone: 787-758-2525 x5112, x1189
Fax: 787-767-1442
carlos.sariol1@upr.edu

Other/Resource Contacts

PI: Dr. Melween I. Martinez
Phone: 787-756-6540 (Animal Resources Center)
Phone: 787-474-0593 (CPRC)
Fax: 787-758-2452 
melween.martinez@upr.edu

Grant Number: R24OD021324

Research Emphasis/Objectives

The Macaque Genotype and Phenotype (mGAP) resource is producing genome-wide variant data from hundreds of rhesus macaques to establish the first centralized database enabling access to, and comparison of, rhesus macaque genotype data across all National Primate Research Centers (NPRCs). This resource expedites rhesus macaque genotype–phenotype analysis and the discovery of new nonhuman primate models of human disease.

Services Provided

The mGAP research resource (mgap.ohsu.edu) contains roughly 30 million sequence variants identified in 1,200 rhesus macaques located at six NPRCs. mGAP’s variant search, based on either macaque or human reference coordinates, enables the discovery of individual macaques across the NPRC system that carry a particular genotype of interest. In addition, by linking mGAP variant data to human-based annotations and the Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM), one can also search for variants based on phenotype of interest and identify individuals that carry those alleles.  

Animals

Rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta)

Biological Materials

Genotyping

Single-nucleotide variants (SNVs) are identified from both whole genome and whole exome data using state-of-the art bioinformatics approaches.

Contact Information

Oregon National Primate Research Center
Oregon Health & Science University
505 N.W. 185th Avenue
Beaverton, OR 97006-3499
ONPRC | OHSU

Principal Investigator

Betsy Ferguson, Ph.D.
Phone: 503-533-2403
Fax: 503-690-5384
fergusob@ohsu.edu

Grant Number: P40OD028116

Research Emphasis/Objectives

The objective of the NIH Nonhuman Primate Reagent Resource is to facilitate the use of nonhuman primate (NHP) models of disease by providing primate-specific antibody reagents for targeting cell subsets, cell receptors, soluble mediators, and immunoglobulins of the most common primate species used in research. This is accomplished by developing new reagents specific for NHP proteins or immunoglobulins and by optimizing existing reagents intended for in vitro diagnostics or for in vivo use in the NHP species.

Current Research

Current research explores methods for generating and engineering recombinant antibodies against NHP targets and expressing these antibodies at large scale. The NIH Nonhuman Primate Reagent Resource also studies the comparative structure and function of immunoglobulins between various primate species.

Services Provided

The resource provides antibodies for in vivo administration and for in vitro diagnostics in NHPs. A database of commercial reagents that cross-react with 12 different NHP species is maintained on the website. The resource also provides NHP recombinant proteins, immunoglobulin reference reagents, and cell lines.

Contact Information

MassBiologics
University of Massachusetts Medical School
460 Walk Hill Street
Boston, MA 02126
nhpreagents.org

Principal Investigator

Diogo Magnani, Ph.D.
Phone: 762-233-7747
diogomagnani@gmail.com

Maintenance of a Closed Caribbean Primate Research Center Specific-Pathogen-Free Colony

Grant Number: U42OD021458

Research Emphasis/Objectives

Research objectives are to (1) establish and maintain a specific-pathogen-free (SPF) rhesus macaque supply and breeding colony program; and (2) enhance the existing SPF rhesus macaque supply and breeding colony program at the SabanaSeca Field Station of the Caribbean Primate Research Center (CPRC). The CPRC program will make a significant contribution to advancing AIDS research by providing high-quality and healthy SPF rhesus monkeys to NIH-sponsored research programs. The CPRC program uses genetically characterized, major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-typed, Indian-origin monkeys from CPRC's free-ranging colony on the island of Cayo Santiago. Previous surveys have shown that the Cayo Santiago macaques are free of several important viruses, including retroviruses and simian virus 40 (SV-40), and that the majority of immature animals are negative for herpes B virus (Herpesvirus simiae or Cercopithecine herpesvirus 1). About 20–25 percent of these monkeys also are Mamu-A*01 positive. Currently, there is a shortage of SPF rhesus monkeys for biomedical research, and the demand for these animals is expected to increase dramatically in the future. The establishment and maintenance of this program at the SabanaSeca Field Station will help meet the increased demand for both SPF (free of herpes B virus, simian type D retrovirus, simian immunodeficiency virus [SIV], simian T-lymphotrophic virus [STLV] 1, and SV-40) and Mamu-A*01-positive rhesus monkeys. Forty-five SPF females and nine SPF males (nine breeding groups) will be added to the colony each year through internal recruitment from Cayo Santiago and the SabanaSeca Field Station. MHC-typing and selective breeding will be used to increase the production of SPF Mamu-A*01-positive offspring.

The Virology Laboratory conducts research on recombinant DNA vaccines using rhesus macaques and performs viral tests for herpes B virus, STLV, and SIV. The biosafety level 2/3 Virology Laboratory has allowed the CPRC to establish the SPF program under the sponsorship of ORIP, and one of its major objectives is to support ongoing SPF programs. The laboratory serves as a platform of research in vaccine development (simian/human immunodeficiency virus [SHIV], SIV, dengue) and in genetics. This laboratory provides services to the conventional and SPF CPRC colonies (viral serology/PCR). With the support of R01 and U01 NIH grants, this laboratory is collaborating with mainland investigators in vaccine and pathogenesis studies involving rhesus macaques.

Services Provided

CPRC welcomes collaborative research with established behavioral and biomedical investigators and encourages the use of its animal and osteological resources for dissertation research. Investigators are charged modest use fees for access to the animals, computerized database, and office space. All proposals receive rigorous peer review and are judged on scientific merit, feasibility, and potential overlap with ongoing studies. Protocols using live monkeys must be approved by the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) of the home institution, as well as the University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus IACUC.

Contact Information

University of Puerto Rico
Medical Sciences Campus
P.O. Box 1053
Sabana Seca, PR 00952-1053
CPRC: cprc.rcm.upr.edu
Virology Laboratory: cprc.rcm.upr.edu/?q=facilities2

Principal Investigator

Melween Martínez, Ph.D.
Phone: 787-474-0604
melween.martinez@upr.edu

Other Contacts

Carlos A. Sariol, M.D.
Phone: 787-758-2525 ext. 5112 or ext. 1189
Fax: 787-767-1442
carlos.sariol1@upr.edu

Virology Laboratory
Office B-315
University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine
P.O. Box 365067
San Juan, PR 00936-5067

Maintenance of the Specific-Pathogen-Free Breeding Colonies at Emory National Primate Research Center

Grant Number: U42OD011023

Research Emphasis/Objectives

The Emory National Primate Research Center objective is to establish a specific-pathogen-free (SPF) rhesus monkey (Macaca mulatta) breeding colony at its Field Station facilities for use in HIV/AIDS research. The animals derived from the colony are seronegative for simian immunodeficiency virus, simian T-lymphotrophic virus 1, type D simian retrovirus, and Cercopithecine herpesvirus 1 (CHV1 or B virus). In addition, all animals are genetically characterized both in respect to pedigree information and selected major histocompatibility complex (MHC) alleles. The nonhuman primates derived from this colony are available for AIDS-related studies by NIH grantees, and all the above listed attributes are important for AIDS research.

Services Provided

SPF rhesus macaques may be requested for AIDS research by contacting the principal investigator. The Emory Resource Allocation Advisory Committee has responsibility for allocating animal resources to NIH-funded investigators. To apply for allocation of SPF rhesus monkeys, investigators must first complete an application form, which is available from the principal investigator.

Contact Information

Emory National Primate Research Center
Emory University
954 North Gatewood Road, NE
Atlanta, GA 30322

Principal Investigator

Joyce K. Cohen, V.M.D.
Phone: 404-712-8103
Fax: 404-727-3756
jkcohe2@emory.edu

Additional Contact

Maria Crane, D.V.M.
Phone: 404-727-8653
mmcrane@emory.edu

Production of Pedigreed Specific-Pathogen-Free Rhesus Macaques

Grant Number: U42OD010990

Research Emphasis/Objectives

The objective of this program at the California National Primate Research Center (CNPRC) is to produce pedigreed rhesus macaques of Indian origin that are free of selected viral pathogens. These agents include Cercopithecine herpesvirus 1 (herpes B), simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV), simian T-lymphotropic virus 1, type D retrovirus, and simian foamy virus (SFV). These animals are of known pedigrees confirmed by microsatellite testing and also are typed for Mamu-A*01 alleles by the University of California, Davis (UC Davis), Veterinary Genetics Laboratory. Colony status is confirmed by frequent viral screening through the Simian Retroviral Core Laboratory.

Research programs are in place to use assisted reproductive technology strategies to expand numbers of Mamu-A*01-positive animals and other genotypes that may be of specific research interest. The CNPRC is also identifying additional viral pathogens to be excluded from the specific-pathogen-free (SPF) population. Genetic studies are underway to determine whether A*01-positive individuals are heterozygous or homozygous.

Services Provided

Animals

Scientists wishing to use pedigreed Indian-origin rhesus macaques should contact the principal investigator. Scientists wishing to conduct research at the CNPRC should contact the director. Information for research access to the primate center is available on CNPRC's website.

Other Services

Pedigree analysis and major histocompatibility complex (MHC) typing for rhesus macaques is available through the UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory.

Contact Information

California National Primate Research Center
University of California, Davis
One Shields Avenue
Davis, CA 95616-8542
cnprc.ucdavis.edu

Principal Investigator

Jeffrey A. Roberts, D.V.M.
Phone: 530-752-6490
jaroberts@ucdavis.edu

Tulane National Primate Research Center AIDS Specific-Pathogen-Free Breeding Colony

Grant Numbers: U42OD010568, U42OD024282

Research Emphasis/Objectives

The objective of the specific-pathogen-free (SPF) rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta) breeding colony resource is to produce well-characterized, healthy nonhuman primates (NHPs) for use in NIH-funded HIV/AIDS research. NHPs derived from the colony are seronegative for simian immunodeficiency virus, simian T-lymphotrophic virus 1, type D simian retrovirus, and Macacine herpesvirus 1 (MHV1 or B virus). In addition to the SPF target agents, the colony is monitored for infection with tuberculosis (Mycobacterium tuberculosis), measles virus, and additional infectious agents based on risk assessment.

The Tulane National Primate Research Center (TNPRC) is one of only three centers in the United States with an expanded SPF (eSPF) breeding program that supplies animals with an increased viral exclusion profile over regular SPF. The expanded viral exclusion profile includes opportunistic agents commonly seen in immunosuppressed disease states (cytomegalovirus, lymphocryptovirus, rhesus rhadinovirus, simian foamy virus, and simian agent 40). Because a high proportion of regular SPF rhesus macaques are infected with viruses that cause disease in immunosuppressed patients, studies specific to these agents cannot be performed in regular SPF rhesus macaques. Expanded SPF rhesus monkeys have been critical in the study of the pathogenesis of opportunistic disease in AIDS.

The TNPRC breeding colony management program centers on a philosophy of continuous improvement, which has contributed significantly to achieving SPF status for the entire breeding colony. Continuous improvement is fostered by the use of evidence derived from observation, controlled in-house studies, and the literature to drive decision-making. We employ this philosophy in many areas of the program, including housing, behavioral management, husbandry practices, nursery rearing, preventive medicine, and veterinary medical care. Using data analysis to drive management decisions has resulted in the development of a comprehensive, integrated breeding colony management plan. This plan produces quality animals for research while assuring stable growth into the future.

Services Provided

Animals

SPF rhesus monkeys may be requested for AIDS research by sending requests to the point of contact listed below. Once contact has been made, a Tulane Resource Allocation Committee animal allocation request form will be sent. The Tulane Resource Allocation Committee will review requests and prioritize allocation based on source of funding and research project to ensure that they are directed to NIH funded HIV/AIDS research as a priority.

Tissues and Other Samples

Tissues and other biologic samples from SPF animals may be obtained by sending requests to the point of contact below for Biologic Samples.

Contact Information

Tulane National Primate Research Center
18703 Three Rivers Road
Covington, LA 70433
tnprc.tulane.edu

Animals

Kathrine Falkenstein, M.P.H.
Animal Colony Epidemiologist
Division of Veterinary Medicine
Tulane National Primate Research Center
tnprc-vetmed@tulane.edu

Biologic Samples

Pyone Pyone Aye, D.V.M., Ph.D.
Assistant Director for Collaborative Research and Contract Research
Tulane National Primate Research Center
Associate Professor of Medicine
Tulane School of Medicine
nprcresearch@wave.tulane.edu

Principal Investigator

Rudolf (Skip) Bohm, D.V.M., DACLAM
Associate Director and Chief Veterinary Medical Officer
Chair, Division of Veterinary Medicine
Tulane National Primate Research Center
Professor of Medicine
Tulane School of Medicine
Phone: 985-871-6266
tnprc-vetmed@tulane.edu

Other/Resource Contacts

Kasi Russell-Lodrigue, D.V.M., Ph.D., DACLAM
Assistant Director for Clinical and Research Medicine
Tulane National Primate Research Center
Associate Professor of Medicine
Tulane School of Medicine
Phone: 985-871-6266
tnprc-vetmed@tulane.edu

Establishment of a Specific-Pathogen-Free Rhesus Macaque Colony

Grant Number: U42OD010442

Research Emphasis/Objectives

This program, which is located at the Southwest National Primate Research Center (SNPRC) in San Antonio, Texas, produces Indian-origin rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta) that are specific-pathogen-free (SPF) for herpes B virus, simian immunodeficiency virus, simian retrovirus, and simian T-lymphotrophic virus 1. The breeding colony produces high-quality genetically characterized and major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-typed animals for use in AIDS-related research conducted by NIH-supported grantees. Occasionally, monkeys are available for other types of research or to non-NIH funded investigators.

Services Provided

Monkeys are available for sale to investigators who want to use the monkeys in research at the SNPRC and those who want to transport the monkeys for research conducted at other sites. Animal Biosafety Level (ABSL) 3 and ABSL-4 facilities are available at SNPRC and Texas Biomedical Research Institute for infectious disease research, including research with select agents.

Contact Information

Texas Biomedical Research Institute
Southwest National Primate Research Center
P.O. Box 760549
San Antonio, TX 78245-0549
txbiomed.org

Principal Investigator

Deepak Kaushal, Ph.D.
Phone: 210-258-9822
dkaushal@txbiomed.org

Specific-Pathogen-Free Rhesus Macaque Breeding Colony for AIDS Research

Grant Numbers: U42OD023038, U42OD010426

Research Emphasis/Objectives

The ONPRC maintains a specific-pathogen-free (SPF) Indian-origin rhesus macaque breeding colony in support of AIDS-related biomedical research. The research objectives are to (1) maintain a breeding population sufficient to supply nonhuman primates for AIDS-related research; (2) optimize the usefulness of this population for research by characterizing ancestry, parentage, and major histocompatibility complex (MHC) type; and (3) ensure the population remains SPF through state-of-the-art surveillance technologies.

Current Research

The ONPRC's SPF Indian-origin rhesus macaque breeding programs have specific female breeder populations. All adults and juveniles are free of simian immunodeficiency virus, T-lymphotrophic virus 1, type D simian retroviruses, and Macacine herpesvirus 1. Frequent microbiologic monitoring is performed to ensure SPF status. Research objectives focus on maintaining a colony of pedigreed, genetically diverse breeding adults and offspring of Indian-origin ancestry and defined MHC class I genotype. Analyses based on genetic marker and/or pedigree information are used to verify parentage, identify genetically valuable animals, and monitor genetic diversity in the colonies. The SPF definition is expanded in the U42 OD023038-supported colony to include additional viral agents that are useful as models of opportunistic infections in AIDS research or as vectors for vaccine development, such as cytomegalovirus, rhesus rhadinovirus, spumaretrovirus, and simian virus 40.

Services Provided

Animals

SPF juvenile Indian-origin rhesus macaques are available for sale to NIH grantees and other qualifying investigators for AIDS-related research. Blood samples and other tissues and body fluids obtainable using routine, noninvasive clinical procedures are available to qualifying investigators with appropriate institutional approvals for research animal use. Cost estimates for collection, packaging, and shipping are available upon request. Allocation of animals produced under this cooperative agreement is determined by the ONPRC Animal Use Committee in consultation with the ORIP program administrator to ensure equitable distribution.

Other Services

The ONPRC's resources are available to collaborative NIH grantees with appropriate animal care and use (IACUC) approval and institutional contractual agreements. Resources include veterinary clinical services, biological safety level 3 laboratory and animal containment facilities, anatomic pathology, clinical pathology, microbiology, and flow cytometry. Further information is available from the Associate Director's office.

Contact Information

Oregon National Primate Research Center
Oregon Health & Science University
505 N.W. 185th Avenue
Beaverton, OR 97006-3499
ONPRC | OHSU

Charles Roberts, Ph.D.
Associate Director for Research
Phone: 503-346-5006
robertsc@ohsu.edu

Principal Investigators

Grant No. U42OD023038
Michael K. Axthelm, D.V.M.
Phone: 503-346-5540
axthelmm@ohsu.edu

Grant No. U42OD010426
Gregory B. Timmel, D.V.M.
Phone: 503-346-5311
timmel@ohsu.edu

Grant Number: P51OD011107

Research Emphasis/Objectives

The California National Primate Research Center (CNPRC) is a research unit of the University of California, Davis (UC Davis). The mission of the CNPRC is to improve human health and quality of life through support of exceptional nonhuman primate (NHP) research programs.

Current Research

The center has a diverse program of research utilizing NHPs. Research projects encompass many aspects of biology and medicine, including AIDS and other infectious diseases; reproductive issues, such as those associated with conception, pregnancy, and fetal growth and development; neurodegenerative conditions, such as Alzheimer's disease; nutritional deficiencies; pulmonary disorders, such as asthma, emphysema, and other chronic obstructive lung diseases; xenotransplantation; cell- and gene-based therapies; acute and chronic stress; temperament and biobehavioral organization; social relationships; neurobiology; cognitive function; and behavioral development.

Services Provided

The CNPRC has four research units: Infectious Disease, Neuroscience and Behavior, Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, and Respiratory Disease. In addition, the CNPRC has four service cores: Flow Cytometry, Inhalation Exposure, Multimodal Imaging, and the Primate Assay Laboratory. We also provide other services, such as Primate Medicine Services. Research opportunities are available for investigators from national and international institutions, as well as scientists within the UC Davis research community. The CNPRC also is home to the Center for Fetal Monkey Gene Transfer for Heart, Lung, and Blood Diseases under the direction of Alice Tarantal, Ph.D.

To Outside Investigators

Specimens

Organs and tissues are provided when available; other biological samples are provided on special request. Shipping, collecting, and processing costs are charged to the requestor.

To Collaborating Scientists

Scientists wishing to conduct research at the center must have their projects reviewed and approved by the center director, research advisory committee, and campus animal care review committee. The center's services are available to collaborating scientists on a fee-for-service basis. Services include—

Core Services

• Flow Cytometry Core
• Inhalation Exposure Core
• Multimodal Imaging Core
• Primate Assay Laboratory Core

Contact Core Leaders at cnprc.ucdavis.edu/our-services/core-services.

Primate Medicine Services

• Preventive medicine and epidemiologic evaluation, surgery, radiology, therapeutics, specialized medical procedures

Diagnostic Pathology and Clinical Laboratory Services

• Bacteriology, biochemistry, hematology, parasitology, pathology, virology

Animals

• Center breeding colony: rhesus macaque (M. mulatta)
• Center research colony: Callicebus cupreus, M. mulatta

Contact Information

California National Primate Research Center
University of California, Davis
Davis, CA 95616
cnprc.ucdavis.edu

Principal Investigator

Simon J. Atkinson, Ph.D.

Center Director

Karen L. Bales, Ph.D.
Phone: 530-752-7059
klbales@ucdavis.edu

Additional Contact

Jeffrey A. Roberts, D.V.M.
Associate Director, Primate Services
Phone: 530-752-6490
jaroberts@ucdavis.edu