Husbandry and Management Core

PROJECT SUMMARY - Core A: Husbandry and Management Core SPF4 Indian-origin rhesus macaques are the premier animal model for HIV/AIDS research, including studies of HIV pathogenesis, AIDS-related opportunistic infections, and the development of treatments and vaccines for HIV and AIDS. Demand for this resource continues to grow and is projected to increase over the grant cycle. A predictable supply of disease-free, genetically characterized nonhuman primates is critical to succeed in the fight against HIV/AIDs. The U42 SPF 4 Rhesus macaque breeding colony for AIDS research produces MHC class-1 typed rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) who are maintained negative for simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV), simian T-lymphotropic virus (STLV-1), simian retrovirus (type D retrovirus or SRV), and macacine herpesvirus-1 (BV). The overall aim of the Husbandry and Management Core is to sustainably manage the ONPRC Specific Pathogen Free (SPF) rhesus macaque breeding colony for AIDS research at a targeted population of 200 adult breeder females capable of producing at least 130 animals annually for research use. To achieve this, we will provide innovative team-based management practices including new social monitoring strategies, a weight management program for at-risk infants, improved assays for disease screening and preventive health needs, and continued genetic selection strategies that maximize diversity.