Preclinical models of multiple sclerosis in nonhuman primates

Abstract

Biotechnology has enabled the development of specifically acting therapies for immune-mediated inflammatory disorders (IMIDs) based on biological molecules. The high species specificity precludes safety and effectivity testing in lower species (mice and rats), thus creating a need for valid experimental models in nonhuman primates (NHPs). Here, we review the creation of relevant NHP model(s) for multiple sclerosis (MS), an IMID of the human CNS. We will also discuss how the model(s) can help in the translation of a scientific principle developed in lower species into a therapy for MS.

Keywords::

• autoimmunity
• common marmoset
• disease model
• experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis
• multiple sclerosis

Acknowledgements

The authors thank Jon Laman and Rogier Q Hintzen (Erasmus Medical Center Rotterdam, The Netherlands) for helpful discussions and valuable comments on this publication. We are indebted to Henk van Westbroek (BPRC) for the artwork.

Financial disclosure

The authors have no relevant financial interests related to this manuscript, including employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.