Tulane National Primate Research Center AIDS SPF Breeding Colony Maintenance

Tulane University Of Louisiana, New Orleans LA

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Abstract

Project Summary/Abstract - Overall The Tulane National Primate Research Center (TNPRC) has one of the largest rhesus monkey breeding colonies in the United States. The objective of this application is to request funds for continued support and maintenance of U42-supported specific pathogen-free (SPF) and expanded SPF (eSPF) Indian-origin rhesus monkey breeding colonies at the TNPRC. The specific aims address the components specified in the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) and are divided into the Overall program description, Husbandry and Management Core, Viral Testing Core, and MHC Genetic Typing Core. Program income and TNPRC funds will be used to support components of the program not covered by grant funds, including per diem for any colony animals in excess of the animals supported by this application, additional testing required for those animals, infrastructure repairs and improvements, veterinary clinical and pathology support, behavioral management support, and portions of the genetic testing. Specific Aims: Overall. To maintain the existing U42-supported SPF and eSPF colonies and distribute available animals to the NIH-funded HIV/AIDS-related research community. Husbandry and Management Core. To provide husbandry and veterinary care for the SPF and eSPF breeding colonies. This includes a robust program for clinical veterinary medical care and behavioral management. The colonies supported by this U42 have reached a mature self-sustaining status with ideal demographics for production of up to 105-150 animals available for research assignment each year based on production and demand with the balance as replacement breeders. Program income generated by the sale of animals will be returned to an account for use in supporting the aims of the grant. Viral Testing Core. To assure the SPF status of the colony through continued viral testing of existing breeding colony animals and all offspring for all four target viruses for the SPF colony (Type D Simian Retrovirus [SRV], Simian T-lymphotropic Virus [STLV], Simian Immunodeficiency Virus [SIV], and Herpes B virus) plus six additional agents (rhesus rhadinovirus [RRV], lymphocryptovirus [LCV], cytomegalovirus [CMV], simian foamy virus [SFV], simian varicella virus [SVV], and simian virus 40 [SV40]) for the eSPF colony. We will also continue to expand characterization of the colony through application of additional diagnostic assays for other pathogens of potential interest. MHC Genetic Typing Core. To continue genetic analysis and MHC typing and provide expanded genetic characterization through enhanced techniques with the goal of sustaining genetic diversity.