Husbandry and Management Core

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PROJECT SUMMARY, Core A: Husbandry and Management Core The U42 SPF 4 Rhesus macaque breeding colony for AIDS research produces MHC class-1 typed rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) who are negative to simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV), simian T-lymphotropic virus (STLV-1), simian retrovirus (type D restrovirus or SRV), and macacine herpesvirus-1 (BV). 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 HIV treatments and vaccines. 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 in the fight against HIV/AIDs. The overall aim of the Husbandry and Management Core is to maintain the ONPRC Specific Pathogen Free (SPF) rhesus macaque breeding colony for AIDS research at a targeted population of 175 adult breeder females capable of producing at least 120 surplus 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, serologic assays for Mycobacterium tuberculosis screening, and introduction of an artificial insemination program to expand genetic diversity.