CHIMPANZEE MANAGEMENT RESEARCH PROGRAM

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This subproject is one of many research subprojects utilizing the resources provided by a Center grant funded by NIH/NCRR. The subproject and investigator (PI) may have received primary funding from another NIH source, and thus could be represented in other CRISP entries. The institution listed is for the Center, which is not necessarily the institution for the investigator. With the characterization of the chimpanzee genome, there has been an increased interest in this species as a research model. This, along with continued Yerkes support of research for which the species is uniquely suitable, has lead to the need for more careful monitoring and management of animal assignments, a process that is now underway. Given that most of our animals are housed socially, considerable effort continues to be invested in contraception to prevent pregnancies. IUDs are the primary method of choice, with females unsuitable for IUD insertion receiving hormonal interventions for contraception. Continued improvements to chimpanzee living arrangements have included resurfacing living environs and providing additional interconnecting doors to facilitate not only social housing but husbandry and management. Positive reinforcement training continues to be a high priority, including providing support to and working with Yerkes Neuroscience personnel. The Center also has established a dedicated cognitive testing facility. The overall project goal is to maintain and study a opulation of chimpanzees and to ensure availability of this species to appropriate NIH funded investigators.