Global Retinoblastoma Presentation and Analysis by National Income Level

Importance

Early diagnosis of retinoblastoma, the most common intraocular cancer, can save both a child's life and vision. However, anecdotal evidence suggests that many children across the world are diagnosed late. To our knowledge, the clinical presentation of retinoblastoma has never been assessed on a global scale.

Objectives

To report the retinoblastoma stage at diagnosis in patients across the world during a single year, to investigate associations between clinical variables and national income level, and to investigate risk factors for advanced disease at diagnosis.

Design, Setting, and Participants

A total of 278 retinoblastoma treatment centers were recruited from June 2017 through December 2018 to participate in a cross-sectional analysis of treatment-naive patients with retinoblastoma who were diagnosed in 2017.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Age at presentation, proportion of familial history of retinoblastoma, and tumor stage and metastasis.

Results

The cohort included 4351 new patients from 153 countries; the median age at diagnosis was 30.5 (interquartile range, 18.3-45.9) months, and 1976 patients (45.4%) were female. Most patients (n = 3685 [84.7%]) were from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Globally, the most common indication for referral was leukocoria (n = 2638 [62.8%]), followed by strabismus (n = 429 [10.2%]) and proptosis (n = 309 [7.4%]). Patients from high-income countries (HICs) were diagnosed at a median age of 14.1 months, with 656 of 666 (98.5%) patients having intraocular retinoblastoma and 2 (0.3%) having metastasis. Patients from low-income countries were diagnosed at a median age of 30.5 months, with 256 of 521 (49.1%) having extraocular retinoblastoma and 94 of 498 (18.9%) having metastasis. Lower national income level was associated with older presentation age, higher proportion of locally advanced disease and distant metastasis, and smaller proportion of familial history of retinoblastoma. Advanced disease at diagnosis was more common in LMICs even after adjusting for age (odds ratio for low-income countries vs upper-middle-income countries and HICs, 17.92 [95% CI, 12.94-24.80], and for lower-middle-income countries vs upper-middle-income countries and HICs, 5.74 [95% CI, 4.30-7.68]).

Conclusions and Relevance

This study is estimated to have included more than half of all new retinoblastoma cases worldwide in 2017. Children from LMICs, where the main global retinoblastoma burden lies, presented at an older age with more advanced disease and demonstrated a smaller proportion of familial history of retinoblastoma, likely because many do not reach a childbearing age. Given that retinoblastoma is curable, these data are concerning and mandate intervention at national and international levels. Further studies are needed to investigate factors, other than age at presentation, that may be associated with advanced disease in LMICs.

Parturition in baboons (PAPIO SPP.)

The Old World non-human primates (NHP) - baboons (Papio spp.) share similarities with humans regarding fetal and placental development and some pregnancy-related complications. Information about the mechanism of birth and complications arising during parturition in these species is relatively sparse. In this manuscript, we add information from a series of pathological and observational cases to highlight insights and selected complications of birth in Papio spp, based on video-recording of the delivery process, X-ray, MRI, and ultrasound evaluations in pregnant baboons. Additionally, we abstracted pathology records obtained from perinatal loss in a large baboon colony during a 17 year period. The presented cases provide important information for the management of pregnancy and delivery in Papio spp.

Glioblastoma Multiforme in Three Baboons (Papio spp.)

Glioblastoma multiforme is the most malignant astrocytic neoplasm and the most common brain neoplasm of humans. Spontaneous neoplasms of the brain are rare in nonhuman primates. This report describes three glioblastomas in adult captive-reared baboons. The animals exhibited a range of clinical signs, including depression, weight loss, weakness, and blindness. All three neoplasms were located in the cerebrum, with extension into the pons in one case. Histologically, the tumors were similar and were characterized by cellular pleomorphism, multinucleated cells, areas of necrosis, microvascular proliferation (glomeruloid bodies), and palisading of neoplastic cells around blood vessels and areas of necrosis. Two baboons exhibited gemistocytic differentiation, and in one baboon, the neoplastic cells were predominantly spindle shaped with a fascicular growth pattern. Immunohistochemical staining for glial fibrillary acidic protein, vimentin, and S-100 protein was positive, whereas immunostaining for synaptophysin and chromogranin A was negative. Positive staining for the cell proliferation marker Ki67 ranged from 8.2% to 13.9%. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase mediated dVTPnick end labeling (TUNEL) staining ranged from 1.8% to 5.7%. These baboon glioblastomas share many features with those of humans.

Subretinal Bone Formation in a Patient with Giant Cell Tumor of the Sphenoid

BACKGROUND/AIMS

To report a case of subretinal bone formation after the treatment with denosumab for a giant cell tumor of the sphenoid, which had recurred after surgical resection.

METHODS

The clinical history and fundus findings including imaging, histologic and immunohistochemical features of the primary tumor and subretinal lesion were reviewed.

RESULTS

A 14-year-old boy was evaluated for a suprasellar mass. Resection of the lesion showed giant cell tumor of bone (GCT). An MRI study at the 1-month follow-up appointment showed tumor progression, and denosumab was initiated. Two months after the initial presentation, the patient developed a worsening scotoma of the right eye. Dilated fundus examination showed a yellow-tan-colored subretinal mass temporal to the fovea. The subretinal lesion was removed and showed lamellar bone with associated fibrocellular tissue.

CONCLUSION

Denosumab therapy for GCT of the sphenoid may be associated with subretinal bone formation.

Secondary analyses of the effects of lutein/zeaxanthin on age-related macular degeneration progression: AREDS2 report No. 3

IMPORTANCE

The Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) formulation for the treatment of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) contains vitamin C, vitamin E, beta carotene, and zinc with copper. The Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS2) assessed the value of substituting lutein/zeaxanthin in the AREDS formulation because of the demonstrated risk for lung cancer from beta carotene in smokers and former smokers and because lutein and zeaxanthin are important components in the retina.

OBJECTIVE

To further examine the effect of lutein/zeaxanthin supplementation on progression to late AMD.

DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS

The Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 is a multicenter, double-masked randomized trial of 4203 participants, aged 50 to 85 years, at risk for developing late AMD; 66% of patients had bilateral large drusen and 34% had large drusen and late AMD in 1 eye.

INTERVENTIONS

In addition to taking the original or a variation of the AREDS supplement, participants were randomly assigned in a factorial design to 1 of the following 4 groups: placebo; lutein/zeaxanthin, 10 mg/2 mg; omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty 3 acids, 1.0 g; or the combination.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURE

S Documented development of late AMD by central, masked grading of annual retinal photographs or by treatment history. RESULTS In exploratory analysis of lutein/zeaxanthin vs no lutein/zeaxanthin, the hazard ratio of the development of late AMD was 0.90 (95% CI, 0.82-0.99; P = .04). Exploratory analyses of direct comparison of lutein/zeaxanthin vs beta carotene showed hazard ratios of 0.82 (95% CI, 0.69-0.96; P = .02) for development of late AMD, 0.78 (95% CI, 0.64-0.94; P = .01) for development of neovascular AMD, and 0.94 (95% CI, 0.70-1.26; P = .67) for development of central geographic atrophy. In analyses restricted to eyes with bilateral large drusen at baseline, the direct comparison of lutein/zeaxanthin vs beta carotene showed hazard ratios of 0.76 (95% CI, 0.61-0.96; P = .02) for progression to late AMD, 0.65 (95% CI, 0.49-0.85; P = .002) for neovascular AMD, and 0.98 (95% CI, 0.69-1.39; P = .91) for central geographic atrophy.

CONCLUSION AND RELEVANCE

The totality of evidence on beneficial and adverse effects from AREDS2 and other studies suggests that lutein/zeaxanthin could be more appropriate than beta carotene in the AREDS-type supplements.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT00345176.

Endocannabinoid crosstalk between placenta and maternal fat in a baboon model (Papio spp.) of obesity

INTRODUCTION

Maternal obesity (MO) remains a serious obstetric problem with acute and chronic morbidities for both mothers and offspring. The mechanisms underlying these adverse consequences of MO remain unknown. Endocannabinoids (ECB) are neuromodulatory lipids released from adipocytes and other tissues. Metabolic crosstalk between placenta and adipocytes may mediate sequelae of MO. The goal of this study was to elucidate placental and systemic ECB in MO.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Placentas, sera, and subcutaneous fat were collected at Cesarean sections performed near term (0.9 G) in four non-obese (nOB) and four obese (OB) baboons (Papio spp.). Concentrations of anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) were measured by liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry. AEA and 2-AG pathways were characterized in placentas by Q-RT-PCR, Western blot and immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

Placental 2-AG levels were lower and maternal fat AEA levels were higher in OB (1254.1 ± 401.3 nmol/kg and 17.3 ± 4 nmol/kg) vs. nOB (3124.2 ± 557.3 nmol/kg and 3.1 ± 0.6 nmol/kg) animals. Concentrations of 2-AG correlated positively between maternal fat and placenta (r = 0.82, p = 0.013), but correlated negatively with maternal leptin concentrations (r = -0.72, p = 0.04 and r = -0.83, p = 0.01, respectively).

CONCLUSION

This is the first study to demonstrate differential ECB pathway regulation in maternal fat and placenta in MO. Differential regulation and function exist for AEA and 2-AG as the major ECB pathways in placenta.

Reovirus-associated meningoencephalomyelitis in baboons

Baboon orthoreovirus (BRV) is associated with meningoencephalomyelitis (MEM) among captive baboons. Sporadic cases of suspected BRV-induced MEM have been observed at Southwest National Primate Research Center (SNPRC) for the past 20 years but could not be confirmed due to lack of diagnostic assays. An immunohistochemistry (IHC)-based assay using an antibody against BRV fusion-associated small transmembrane protein p15 and a conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based assay using primers specific for BRV were developed to detect BRV in archived tissues. Sixty-eight cases of suspected BRV-induced MEM from 1989 through 2010 were tested for BRV, alphavirus, and flavivirus by IHC. Fifty-nine of 68 cases (87%) were positive for BRV by immunohistochemistry; 1 tested positive for flavivirus (but was negative for West Nile virus and St Louis encephalitis virus by real-time PCR), and 1 virus isolation (VI) positive control tested negative for BRV. Sixteen cases (9 BRV-negative and 7 BRV-positive cases, by IHC), along with VI-positive and VI-negative controls, were tested by PCR for BRV. Three (of 9) IHC-negative cases tested positive, and 3 (of 7) IHC-positive cases tested negative by PCR for BRV. Both IHC and PCR assays tested 1 VI-positive control as negative (sensitivity: 75%). This study shows that most cases of viral MEM among baboons at SNPRC are associated with BRV infection, and the BRV should be considered a differential diagnosis for nonsuppurative MEM in baboons.

Abruptio placentae in the baboon (Papio spp.)

INTRODUCTION

Placental abruption is a serious condition that increases perinatal morbidity and mortality. Clinical prevention and treatment options are limited, especially in human preterm deliveries. Knowledge of the mechanisms that keep the placenta in place during pregnancy is critical for developing strategies for the prevention of abruption. Failure of physiological transformation of spiral arteries has been described as a major contributing factor of the placental abruption development. Baboons (Papio spp.) share striking similarities with humans in regard to placental structure, utero-placental blood flow, and fetal development; however, the mode of trophoblast invasion is shallow in baboons. This fact prompted the hypothesis that the incidence of placental abruption will be increased in baboons compared to humans.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Baboon placentas were collected between 2002 and 2008. Two independent veterinary pathologists evaluated the slides. A certified physician pathologist performed additional histology.

RESULTS

Placental abruption was diagnosed in 22 baboons among 2423 live births during the study period (0.9% prevalence). The most common clinical presentations were fetal demise and vaginal bleeding. The most common pathological findings were intraplacental hemorrhages with or without hematoma formation (86.4%). Other findings consisted of neutrophil infiltration (50%), decidual necrosis (22.7%), decidual vascular congestion and inflammation, villous congestion and retroplacental hemorrhage/hematoma (each 18.2%). These pathologic findings were the same for term and preterm deliveries.

CONCLUSION

This is the first systematic study of placental abruption in non-human primates, analyzing a large colony of baboons. Despite differences in trophoblast invasion, the clinical features observed in placental abruption affecting baboons resembled those reported in humans. The cluster of placental pathological findings in baboons also agreed with clinical reports, but the prevalence of these findings differed between baboons and humans. We discuss a mechanism of anti-abruption forces that offset shallow trophoblast invasion observed in baboons.

Sclerosing cholangitis in baboons (Papio spp) resembling primary sclerosing cholangitis of humans

Primary sclerosing cholangitis is a chronic and progressive cholestatic liver disease that has been extensively documented in the human literature. Although it shares many features in common with chronic lymphocytic cholangitis in cats, primary sclerosing cholangitis has never been reported in a nonhuman primate. Primary sclerosing cholangitis is characterized by the presence of intrahepatic and/or extrahepatic inflammation and concentric fibrosis of bile ducts, eventually leading to cirrhosis and hepatic failure. The pathogenesis and cause remain unknown, but the disease likely involves a multifactorial mechanism with genetic- and immune-mediated components. The authors report 2 cases that histologically resemble the condition in humans; they consist of 2 adult male baboons with a clinical history of chronic elevated liver enzymes. In both cases, the liver was histologically characterized by thick bands of fibrosis and mild lymphoplasmacytic periportal cholangiohepatitis with concentric periductal fibrosis, resulting in atrophy and loss of bile ducts. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed positivity of hepatocytes to cytokeratin 7. Masson stain demonstrated marked biliary fibrosis. This is the first report that resembles sclerosing cholangitis in a nonhuman primate, and it suggests that the baboon may provide a useful animal model for this condition in humans.

The morphometry of materno-fetal oxygen exchange barrier in a baboon model of obesity

INTRODUCTION

More than one-fourth of U.S. women are overweight; more than one-third are obese. Maternal obesity has been linked to an increased incidence of stillbirths, fetal macrosomia, fetal intrauterine growth restriction and pre-eclampsia. The placenta plays a key role in the nutrients and oxygen supply to the fetus. The data about structural changes in the placental villous membrane (VM), a major component of the feto-maternal nutrient and oxygen exchange barrier, during obesity are sparse and inconsistent. Our objective was to evaluate the morphometric changes in the placental exchange barrier in a baboon model of obesity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The previously described baboon model of maternal obesity was studied. We compared 4 obese to 4 non-obese baboons. Placental stereology with the use of transmission electron microscopy was performed to estimate VM oxygen diffusing capacities and morphometry.

RESULTS

The specific placental oxygen diffusing capacities per unit of fetal weight were similar in baboons and humans. Maternal leptin concentrations correlated negatively with placental basement membrane thickness (r = -0.78, p < 0.05), while fetal leptin levels correlated negatively with endothelial thickness of fetal capillaries (r = -0.78, p < 0.05). The total and specific villous membrane oxygen diffusing capacities were not different between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

To the best of our knowledge this is the first report of placental oxygen diffusing capacities and placental ultrastructural changes in a baboon model of obesity. Previously reported placental inflammation in maternal obesity is not associated with changes in the VM diffusing capacities and ultrastructure.

Intracranial meningioma in a baboon (Papio spp.)

Meningioma is the most common intracranial non-glial tumour of cats, dogs and man. Few spontaneously arising brain tumours have been reported in non-human primates. This report describes a meningioma in a captive baboon. Clinical signs exhibited by the animal included head pressing, visual impairment and vestibular disease. The tumour arose from the ventral aspect of the cranial cavity and compressed the overlying left side of the cerebellum and brainstem. Microscopically, the mass was characterized by pleomorphic spindle-shaped to polygonal cells arranged in sheaths, vague whorls and occasional papillary structures on vascular cores. Nuclear cytoplasmic invagination, syncytial-like cells and areas of mineralization were also evident. Immunohistochemically, the neoplastic cells expressed vimentin and S-100 protein, but not pancytokeratin, glial fibrillary acidic protein or epithelial membrane antigen. The features of this tumour are similar to those of meningiomas in other species.

Further studies on the frequency and length of the glandulo-metaplastic esophageal mucosa in baboons

BACKGROUND

In previous studies, the length of the glandulo-metaplastic esophageal mucosa (GMEM) at the gastroesophageal junction was assessed in a selected group of baboons. In this study, the length of the GMEM was measured in the entire esophagus in a cohort of unselected adult baboons.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In 15 female baboons, the entire esophagus was removed en bloc at autopsy, from the tongue to the angle of His. No part of the stomach was included. The length of GMEM was measured using a calibrated ocular microscale.

RESULTS

GMEM was found in 11 out of the 15 esophagi. The total length of GMEM recorded in the 11 cases was 115 mm (mean 10.5 mm, range 1-45 mm). The mean age for animals with GMEM was 15.5 years (range 7-32 years) and for animals without GMEM was 14.0 years (range 7-20 years); the difference was non-significant (p<0.6). No significant association was found between the length of the GMEM and the age of the animals (p<0.6).

CONCLUSION

This study substantiates the notion that GMEM in baboons is a postnatal physiological adaptative process of the esophageal mucosa to daily regurgitation with rumination of gastric juices of low pH. The GMEM apparently progresses upwards, along the esophageal mucosa. The baboon might be an excellent animal model to study the series of histological events that take place in the distal esophagus under the influence of protracted gastroesophageal reflux.

Spontaneous pathology of the baboon endocrine system

BACKGROUND

Study of endocrine pathology in animal models is critical to understanding endocrine pathology in humans.

METHODS

We evaluated 434 endocrine-related diagnoses from 4619 baboon necropsies, established the incidence of spontaneous endocrine pathology, and analyzed the clinical and biochemical data associated with the individual cases.

RESULTS

The most common diagnoses in descending order, were pancreatic islet cell amyloidosis (n = 259), ovarian cysts (n = 50), pituitary adenoma (n = 37), pancreatic islet cell adenoma (n = 20), granulosa cell tumor (n = 15), thyroid adenoma (n = 11), adrenal hyperplasia (n = 10), thyroid carcinoma (n = 8), and pheochromocytoma (n = 6). The incidence of pancreatic islet cell amyloidosis progressively increased with age. Pheochromocytomas were associated with renal and heart failure. The incidence of pancreatic islet cell amyloidosis and adrenal pathology was similar to humans; the incidence of pituitary adenoma and thyroid pathology was lower than in humans.

CONCLUSIONS

Endocrine disease in baboons is common and shares clinical and biochemical characteristics with endocrine disease in humans.

Evaluation of four hematology and a chemistry portable benchtop analyzers using non-human primate blood

BACKGROUND

Near patient testing (NPT) and point-of-care testing (POCT) using portable benchtop analyzers has become necessary in many areas of the medical community, including biocontainment.

METHODS

We evaluated the Beckman AcT diff, Abaxis Vetscan HMII (two instruments), Abbott Cell-Dyn 1800, and Abaxis Vetscan VS2 for within-run precision and correlation to central laboratory instruments using non-human primates blood.

RESULTS

Compared with the central laboratory instruments, the Beckman AcT diff correlated on 80%; the HMII instruments on 31% and 44%, the CD1800 on 31%, and the VS2 on 71% of assays. For assays with published manufacturers precision guidelines, the AcT diff met all nine, the HMII instruments met one and six of six, and the CD 1800 met one of six.

CONCLUSIONS

Laboratories using NPT/POCT must test their individual instruments for precision and correlation, identify assays that are reliable, and exclude or develop supplemental procedures for assays that are not.

Spontaneous gallbladder pathology in baboons

BACKGROUND

Gallbladder pathology (GBP) is a relatively uncommon, naturally occurring morbidity in both baboons and humans.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed on 7776 necropsy reports over a 20 year period to determine the prevalence of baboon GBP.

RESULTS

Ninety-seven cases of GBP were identified, yielding a 20 year population prevalence of 1.25%. GBP is more common in adult female baboons, occurring with a female to male ratio of nearly 2:1. Among gallbladder pathologies, cholecystitis (35.1%) and cholelithiasis (29.9%) were the most prevalent abnormalities, followed by hyperplasia (16.5%), edema (15.5%), amyloidosis (5.2%), fibrosis (4.1%), necrosis (4.1%), and hemorrhage (1.0%).

CONCLUSION

Many epidemiologic similarities exist between GBP in baboons and humans suggesting that the baboon may serve as a reliable animal model system for investigating GBP in humans.

Feto-placental adaptations to maternal obesity in the baboon

Maternal obesity is present in 20-34% of pregnant women and has been associated with both intrauterine growth restriction and large-for-gestational age fetuses. While fetal and placental functions have been extensively studied in the baboon, no data are available on the effect of maternal obesity on placental structure and function in this species. We hypothesize that maternal obesity in the baboon is associated with a maternal inflammatory state and induces structural and functional changes in the placenta. The major findings of this study were: 1) decreased placental syncytiotrophoblast amplification factor, intact syncytiotrophoblast endoplasmic reticulum structure and decreased system A placental amino acid transport in obese animals; 2) fetal serum amino acid composition and mononuclear cells (PBMC) transcriptome were different in fetuses from obese compared with non-obese animals; and 3) maternal obesity in humans and baboons is similar in regard to increased placental and adipose tissue macrophage infiltration, increased CD14 expression in maternal PBMC and maternal hyperleptinemia. In summary, these data demonstrate that in obese baboons in the absence of increased fetal weight, placental and fetal phenotype are consistent with those described for large-for-gestational age human fetuses.

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors in a baboon, a spider monkey, and a chimpanzee and a review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are believed to originate from the intestinal pacemaker cells (interstitial cells of Cajal) or their progenitor cells. Spontaneous tumors have been reported in dogs, horses, rhesus, and a chimpanzee and they have been produced experimentally in mice and rats. GISTs represent a diagnostic challenge because they cannot be differentiated from non-lymphoid mesenchymal tumors without using human c-kit (CD117) immunohistochemistry.

METHODS

Three neoplasms were incidental findings at necropsy in the stomachs of a baboon and a spider monkey and in the rectum of a chimpanzee.

RESULTS

The GISTs were initially diagnosed grossly and histologically with hematoxylin and eosin as leiomyomas. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that all three were c-kit (CD117) positive.

CONCLUSIONS

These are the first reports of GISTs in the baboon and spider monkey and the second in a chimpanzee. The occurrence of GISTs in non-human primates may provide a unique opportunity to study these tumors.

Barbiturate euthanasia solution-induced tissue artifact in nonhuman primates

BACKGROUND

Barbiturate euthanasia solutions are a humane and approved means of euthanasia. Overdosing causes significant tissue damage in a variety of laboratory animals.

METHODS

One hundred seventeen non-human primates (NHP) representing 7 species including 12 fetuses euthanized for humane and research reasons by various vascular routes with Euthasol, Sodium Pentobarbital, Fatal Plus, Beuthanasia D, or Euthanasia 5 were evaluated for euthanasia-induced tissue damage. Lungs and livers were histologically graded for hemolysis, vascular damage, edema, and necrosis. Severity of tissue damage was analyzed for differences on the basis of agent, age, sex, dose, and injection route.

RESULTS

Severity of tissue damage was directly related to dose and the intracardiac injection route, but did not differ by species, sex, and agent used.

CONCLUSIONS

When the recommended dose of agent was used, tissue damage was generally reduced, minimal, or undetectable. Barbiturate-induced artifacts in NHPs are essentially the same as in other laboratory species.

Eosinophilic bronchitis-like lesion as the cause of death in a Macaca mulatta: a first case report

BACKGROUND

Eosinophilic bronchitis is a recently described, relatively benign condition in humans that is characterized by a corticosteroid-responsive chronic cough and sputum eosinophilia without the abnormalities of airway function seen in asthma. The exact cause of this condition is currently unknown, however has been associated with various occupational exposures in humans. It has also been reported to progress to irreversible airway obstruction. This disease has been reported in dogs and horses, but not in non-human primates.

METHODS

Gross examination of an otherwise healthy 13-year-old, colony-born Macaca mulatta, which died of severe non-responsive respiratory distress revealed that the lungs were markedly inflated and moist.

RESULTS

Hematoxylin and eosin-stained sections from the lungs contained widespread accumulation of eosinophils, sloughed epithelial cells, and mucus centered around bronchioles and adjacent airways. There was no evidence of mast cell infiltration of peribronchiolar smooth muscle, goblet cell hyperplasia, or basement membrane thickening.

CONCLUSIONS

This ruled out recurrent episodes as would be expected in asthma, favoring the diagnosis of an eosinophilic bronchitis-like lesion. We report a first case of eosinophilic bronchitis-like features in a M. mulatta.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease in baboons (Papio sp.): a new animal model

BACKGROUND

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is increasingly prevalent in the human population. Current animal models require surgical or other manipulation to produce symptoms. An animal model that exhibits spontaneous GERD would provide the opportunity for much-needed research examining the susceptibility, diagnosis, and treatment of GERD.

METHODS

Eight baboons (Papio hamadryas sp.) were diagnosed with GERD histopathologically using biopsies or postmortem tissues.

RESULTS

The disease was characterized by a spectrum of symptoms comparable with that found in the human population. Some subjects had no gross signs of clinical disease, but were diagnosed by histopathological examination. Almost all subjects presented with at least one clinical sign of the disease. Regurgitation was the most common.

CONCLUSIONS

The baboon may be a superior animal model for GERD research because it is a naturally occurring model and is anatomically and physiologically similar to humans.

Tuberculosis (Mycobacterium tuberculosis) in a pregnant baboon (Papio cynocephalus)

BACKGROUND

Old World monkeys are considered more susceptible to tuberculosis (TB) than New World monkeys. Several cases of TB in baboons are described in the literature. The data regarding baboon reaction to the tuberculin skin test (TST) are controversial. Some authors described anergy in this species, while the others documented a positive reaction.

CASE REPORT

An 8-year-old clinically healthy pregnant female baboon (Papio cynocephalus anubis) developed positive TST after 3 years of negative tests in captivity while not pregnant. Thoracic radiographs demonstrated three nodular densities in the lung.

RESULTS

Histological examination of tracheobronchial lymph nodes revealed multiple coalescing pyogranulomas filled with caseonecrotic debris and mineralized foci with numerous large foreign body-type and Langhans-type multinucleated giant cells. The bacterial culture contained a slow growing Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex.

CONCLUSIONS

We describe, to the best of our knowledge, the first case of a positive TST in a wild caught, pregnant baboon with latent infection after 3 years in captivity.

Endometriosis involving the ileocaecal junction with regional lymph node involvement in the baboon—striking pathological finding identical between the human and the baboon: A Case Report

The baboon is an established model for endometriosis research. This report describes the occurrence of spontaneous endometriosis involving the ileocaecal junction and associated regional lymph nodes in the baboon. All endometriotic foci lacked the nuclear atypia, abnormal mitotic activity and altered nuclear-to-cytoplasmic ratio typical of malignancy. These findings are identical to reports in the human in which ileocaecal and colonic endometriosis is associated with endometriosis in pericolonic and mesenteric lymph nodes. The similarity between baboon and human colonic endometriosis in both location and pathology is striking and lends further evidence supporting the validity of the baboon as a model for human endometriosis.

Effect of 30 per cent maternal nutrient restriction from 0.16 to 0.5 gestation on fetal baboon kidney gene expression

Previous studies in rodents and sheep show that maternal nutrient restriction during pregnancy alters fetal renal development. To date, no studies using fetal baboon RNA with human Affymetrix gene chips have been published. In the present study we have (1) evaluated the specificity of the Affymetrix human gene array 'Laboratory on a Chip' system for use with fetal baboon mRNA and (2) investigated the effects of moderate maternal global nutrient restriction (NR; 70% of ad libitum animals) from early (30 days gestation (dG)) to mid-gestation (90 dG; term = 184 dG) on the fetal baboon kidney. Morphometric and blood measurements were made on 12 non-pregnant baboons before they were bred. All baboons were fed ad libitum until 30 days pregnant, at which time six control baboons continued to feed ad libitum (control - C) while six received 70% of the C diet on a weight adjusted basis. Fetal kidneys were collected following caesarean section at 90 dG, with samples flash frozen and fixed for histological assessment. Fetal hip circumference was decreased in the NR group (68 +/- 2 versus 75 +/- 2 mm), while fetal body weight and all other measurements of fetal size were not different between C and NR at 90 dG. Maternal body weight was decreased in the NR group (12.16 +/- 0.34 versus 13.73 +/- 0.55 kg). Having established the specificity of the Affymetrix system for fetal baboon mRNA, gene expression profiling of fetal kidneys in the context of our maternal nutrient restriction protocol shows that NR resulted in a down-regulation of genes in pathways related to RNA, DNA and protein biosynthesis, metabolism and catabolism. In contrast, genes in cell signal transduction, communication and transport pathways were up-regulated in the NR group. These changes indicate that even a moderate level of maternal global NR impacts fetal renal gene pathways. Our histological assessment of renal structure indicates decreased tubule density within the cortex of NR kidneys compared with controls. The number of glomerular cross-sections per unit area were unaffected by NR, suggesting that tubule tortuosity and/or tubule length was decreased in the NR kidney. Taken together the changes indicate that NR results in accelerated fetal renal differentiation. The negative impact of poor maternal nutrition on the fetal kidney may therefore be in part due to shortening of critical phases of renal growth resulting in decreased functional capacity in later life. These findings may have important implications for postnatal renal function, thereby contributing to the observed increased predisposition to hypertension and renal disease in the offspring of nutrient restricted mothers.

Trisomy of chromosome 18 in the baboon (Papio hamadryas anubis)

Trisomy 18 is usually a lethal chromosomal abnormality and is the second most common autosomal trisomy in humans, with an incidence of 1:8000 live births. It is commonly associated with abnormalities of the lower and upper extremities, having the frequency of 95% and 65%, respectively. A newborn female olive baboon (Papio hamadryas anubis) was diagnosed with intrauterine growth retardation and severe arthrogryposis-like congenital joint deformities. Cytogenetic analysis including G-banding and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) revealed that the congenital abnormalities were associated with chromosomal mosaicism for trisomy 18. Genetic analysis with microsatellites from chromosome 18 confirmed the maternal origin of the extra chromosome 18. This is the first report of trisomy 18 in the baboon, which may be a promising animal model of human disease.

Myocardial contrast echocardiography in assessing microcirculation in baboons with chagas disease

OBJECTIVE

Microvascular abnormalities have been postulated in the pathogenesis of chagasic cardiomyopathy. The objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship between coronary microcirculation and systolic function impairment in baboons with Chagas disease using myocardial contrast echocardiography (MCE).

METHODS

Seventeen seropositive (5 males, 12 females; mean age 20 years) and 13 age- and gender-matched seronegative baboons underwent MCE using intravenous octafluoropropane human albumin microspheres. Color-coding was used to enhance tissue contrast in assessing regional myocardium uniformity and texture. Dipyridamole (0.54 mg/kg) was given to a subset of 4 animals to challenge coronary flow reserve. Systolic indices included left ventricular fractional shortening, velocity of circumferential fiber shortening, and left and right ventricular ejection fractions.

RESULTS

Four of the 17 (24%) seropositive primates had decreased fractional shortening (25 +/- 8% vs. 40 +/-5%, p <.005), velocity of circumferential fiber shortening (1.05 +/- 0.36 circ/s vs. 1.84 +/- 0.23 circ/s, p <.0001), and reduced right ventricular ejection fraction (44 +/- 9% vs. 54 +/- 4%, p <.05) compared to other seropositive animals. Seropositive and seronegative groups showed no significant differences on the coronary microcirculation pattern as evaluated by MCE, including the 4 baboons with systolic function impairment. Moreover, coronary flow vasoreactivity resulted in a significant increase in myocardial flow as detected by color-coding masking.

CONCLUSIONS

Chagasic heart disease is present in 24% of seropositive baboons spontaneously infected with Trypanosoma cruzi. MCE reveals a discrepancy between coronary microcirculation at rest and alterations in myocardial contractility, suggesting preservation of the microvascular integrity in this unique animal model.

Congenital bronchiolo-alveolar airway malformation in a cynomolgus macaque (Macaca fascicularis)

Pulmonary congenital anomalies in animals are rare. Previously reported malformations include accessory lung formation, pulmonary hypoplasia, pulmonary agenesis, and various forms of hamartoma. Congenital bronchiolo-alveolar airway malformation, a new entity, is described in a 1-day-old male cynomolgus macaque. This neonate experienced breathing difficulties shortly after birth and died while therapy was being administered. Grossly, the right lung was markedly increased in size, firm, and pink. Histopathologically, sections of right lung showed irregular bronchiole-like and alveolus-like structures. There was marked widening of alveolar septae by loosely arranged mesenchymal cells and many centrally located capillaries. Alveoli were lined by cuboidal epithelial cells. There were scattered islands of immature cartilage. A grossly enlarged lung containing bronchiole-like and alveolus-like structures, immature cartilage islands, and many capillaries within alveolar septae on histopathologic examination, is inconsistent with previously described congenital pulmonary anomalies in animals and humans.

Specific alteration of the Bax/Bcl2 ratio and cytochrome c without execution of apoptosis in the hippocampus of aged baboons

PURPOSE

During ageing, there may be an age-associated loss of particular nerve cells in specific brain areas. Recent studies highlight the role of apoptosis in the normal ageing of the brain, heart, and skeletal muscle. Particular attention is paid to the role of cytochrome c release from mitochondria and alterations in the pro- and anti-apoptotic proteins, Bax and Bcl-2, respectively. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential occurrence of apoptosis in the hippocampus of aged baboons.

METHODS

we have used the baboon as a potential non-human primate model for age-related pathology which afflicts the human brain. The TUNEL staining method was used to characterise the apoptotic cell death. For immunocytochemistry, antibodies directed against activated caspase-3, cytochrome c, Bcl-2 and Bax proteins were used.

RESULTS

Our results show that in hippocampi of aged baboons the immunoreactivities of the antiapoptotic agent Bcl-2 was not prominently changed, of the proapoptotic agent Bax was upregulated, of the cytochrome c was redistributed, and that caspase-3 was not activated. The TUNEL-staining method revealed no apoptotic cell death in hippocampi of aged baboons.

CONCLUSIONS

This demonstrates that a specific alteration of the Bax/Bcl2 ratio occurs in the ageing baboon hippocampus which may directly influence the release of cytochrome c even without commitment to apoptosis.

White monkey syndrome in infant baboons (Papio species)

Over 23 months, zinc toxicosis was diagnosed in 35 baboons aged 5-12 months in one galvanized metal and concrete cage complex with conditions that led to excessive exposure to environmental zinc. Clinical signs included reduced pigmentation of hair, skin, and mucous membranes (whiteness), alopecia, dehydration, emaciation, cachexia, dermatitis, diarrhea and, in six cases, severe gangrenous dermatitis of extremities. The syndrome was characterized by pancytopenia, elevated zinc and low copper serum concentrations, low vitamin D and bone-specific alkaline phosphatase levels, and atypical myelomonocytic proliferation of bone marrow. This syndrome emphasizes the importance of proper husbandry and cage design and indicates the potential of infant baboons as a model to study the effects of excessive zinc on development. This is the first report describing the epidemiologic and clinical presentation of zinc toxicosis in infant baboons in captivity.

Normal concentrations of essential and toxic elements in pregnant baboons and fetuses (Papio species)

Heavy metals are essential for the normal progression of maternal and fetal tissue growth and metabolism in pregnancy. Considerable data have been collected for concentrations of various elements in pregnant women, but no comprehensive evaluation of element concentrations in any non-human primate model has been performed. Baboons were studied at the second half of pregnancy. Forty essential and toxic element concentrations were analyzed by absorption spectrophotometry in paired maternal and fetal blood samples; hair and nail samples in pregnant baboons; in placenta, amniotic fluid; and fetal femur, lymph nodes, and liver. Concentrations demonstrated an excellent correlation with concentrations reported in late human pregnancy. Twenty-four elements were below detectable limits in various specimens. We conclude that the pregnant baboon offers unique opportunities to study both normal maternal, fetal, and placental physiology as well as the environmental toxicology of these elements. This information and the ability to use the pregnant baboon as a model is important because essential and toxic elements are key components of the diet as well as major products of manufacturing processes within our industrialized society.

Abdominal pregnancy in a baboon: a first case report

The abdominal pregnancy is a rare, but life threatening complication of ectopic embryo implantation. Only three cases of abdominal pregnancy have been previously described in primates: in a squirrel monkey, owl monkey and in a rhesus macaque. A 14-year-old wild-caught olive baboon (Papio cynocephalus anubis) was diagnosed at the ultrasound examination with advanced gestational age extrauterine pregnancy. At the initial laparotomy and necropsy the diagnosis of abdominal pregnancy was made on Studdiford's criteria. This case indicates the possibility of developing a model for further study of different types of ectopic pregnancy and indicates a cesarean section as a risk factor for abdominal pregnancy.

Polyarteritis nodosa in a cynomolgus macaque (Macaca fascicularis)

Polyarteritis nodosa (PAN) is an idiopathic necrotizing vasculitis affecting small- to medium-sized arteries. The disease is well recognized in humans, and PAN-like syndromes have been described in a number of other species. This report describes a case of PAN in a 6-year-old male cynomolgus macaque. The animal had necrotizing arteritis affecting vessels in the kidney, small intestine, colon, heart, spleen, mesentery, urinary bladder, and pancreas. The lesions were segmental in distribution and of varying severity and stage of development. A transmural mixed inflammatory cell infiltrate was present, often accompanied by fibrinoid necrosis of the tunica media and loss of the internal elastic lamina. Immunohistochemical staining showed that many of the infiltrating cells were T lymphocytes and histiocytes, suggesting a cell-mediated component to the pathogenesis.

Hematology and blood biochemistry in infant baboons (Papio hamadryas)

Although published normative reference standards for hematologic and clinical chemistry measures are available for adult baboons, their applicability to infants has not been addressed. We analyzed these measures in 110 infant baboons (55 females and 55 males) from a large breeding colony at the Southwest Regional Primate Research Center in San Antonio, Texas. The sample consists of olive baboons and olive/yellow baboon hybrids, 1 week to 12 months of age. We produced cross-sectional reference values and examined the effects of age, sex, and subspecies on these variables. Hematology reference ranges for infant baboons are similar to, but wider than, those for adults. Reference ranges for blood biochemistry measures are generally more dissimilar to adults, indicating that for many variables, reference ranges for adult baboons are not adequate for infants. Although sex and subspecies differences are rare, age accounts for more than 10% of the variance in many of the variables.

Record review of baboons with histologically confirmed endometriosis in a large established colony

Spontaneous endometriosis was diagnosed in 43 baboons over a 14-year period. Thirty-seven have died; five remain alive; one was sold and lost to follow-up. The average age at diagnosis was 17.2 years; 29 (67%) were between 12 and 21 years of age. Fifteen (35%) were diagnosed by biopsy and received surgical excision of the endometriotic tissue; four of these were identified during caesarian section, confirming one prior report of endometriosis in pregnant animals. Twenty-eight (65%) were diagnosed at or shortly preceding necropsy. When diagnosed by a palpable abdominal mass, there was a significantly greater likelihood the animal died or was killed as a result of complications of endometriosis. When diagnosis was at necropsy, there was a significantly greater likelihood that the animal died from causes unrelated to endometriosis. Early identification with surgical removal appears to provide a benefit for both survival and delivering offspring after diagnosis. In twenty-one baboons (49%), endometriosis affected multiple sites within the peritoneal cavity. In the remaining baboons, lesions were more localized. Ovarian involvement was seen in sixteen (37%) of these baboons. This paper is the first to describe significant ovarian involvement in baboons, previously considered a limitation of the usefulness of this species as an animal model. We also describe the first reported endometriosis seeding of an abdominal surgery scar in a baboon. Many of these baboons were middle aged, had few or no offspring, or had evidence of a long duration of uninterrupted menstrual cycles, consistent with risk factors for women. Endometriosis was an incidental finding in 17 (40%) of these baboons, consistent with previous reports of minimal endometriosis as a common asymptomatic finding in baboons and in women. Overall, endometriosis in baboons presents a spontaneously occurring animal model that shares important features with the disease in women and the rhesus macaque.

Chronic colitis in Macaca fascicularis: similarities with chronic colitis in humans

In recent years, a substantial number of macaques have died at the Southwest Foundation for Biomedical Research, USA, following protracted intractable diarrhea. The diarrhea could last for up to two years and occurred in infant, juvenile or young adult animals. The histopathological diagnosis at autopsy was chronic colitis. The histopathological subtype of chronic colitis is here assessed in a relatively large number of colonic specimens obtained at autopsy (n = 90). The colonic mucosa was well preserved for histological examination in 83 of the 90 macaques. At review, various histological phenotypes of chronic colitis were found. Chronic lymphocytic-plasmacytic colitis occurred in 78.3% (65 out of 83), chronic ulcerative colitis in 20.5% (17 out of 83) and Crohn's colitis in 1.2% (1 out of 83). In macaques, some histological phenotypes of chronic colitis (ulcerative and Crohn's colitis) closely mimic chronic colitis in humans. The awareness that chronic colitis in macaques is not one disease but a series of chronic inflammatory changes, with common clinical symptoms and similar gross appearances, may lead to the correct histological diagnosis of the subtype of the disease.

Spontaneous pancreatic islet amyloidosis in 40 baboons

Spontaneous amyloidosis occurs in many nonhuman primate species but remains difficult to diagnose and treat. Nonhuman primates continue to offer promise as animal models in which to study amyloidosis in humans. Amyloidosis was not diagnosed clinically but was found histologically in four male and 36 female baboons. The baboons averaged 18 years of age at death (range, 7-28 years). Clinical signs, if present, were hyperglycemia and cachexia. Blood glucose values were elevated in 12 of 30 baboons with available clinical pathology data. Four baboons had been clinically diagnosed as diabetic and three were treated with insulin. Amyloid was found in the islets of Langerhans of the pancreas in 40 baboons; 35 baboons had amyloid only in the islets of Langerhans. Amyloid was found in nonislet tissue of baboons as follows: five, nonislet pancreas; four, intestine and adrenal; three, kidney; two, prostate and spleen; and one each, lymph node, liver, gall bladder, stomach, tongue, urinary bladder, and salivary gland. Sections of paraffin-embedded tissues were evaluated for amyloid with hematoxylin and eosin (HE) and congo red (CR) staining, and using immunohistochemistry for human islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP), calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), glucagon, pancreatic polypeptide (PP), somatostatin (SS), and porcine insulin. Islet amyloid was positive with HE in 40 baboons, with CR in 39 baboons, and with IAPP and CGRP in 35 baboons. IAPP and CGRP only stained islet amyloid. PP, SS, glucagon, and porcine insulin did not stain amyloid. Islet amyloidosis in the baboon appears to be difficult to diagnose clinically, age-related, and similar to islet amyloidosis in other species. The baboon may be a good model for the study of islet amyloidosis in humans.

Spontaneous amyloidosis in twelve chimpanzees, Pan troglodytes

Spontaneous amyloidosis was diagnosed in 11 male and 1 female chimpanzees and confirmed histologically and immunohistochemically. The chimpanzees were > or = 15 years of age when first diagnosed and averaged 22.4 years of age. The average survival time after diagnosis of systemic amyloidosis was 1.86 years with a standard deviation of 4.06 years (n = 7). The chimpanzees with amyloidosis were asymptomatic except for hepatomegaly, which became more detectable with age. Significant increases in clinical chemistry values, as compared with referenced normals and established normals, of blood urea nitrogen (BUN), asparate aminotransferase (AST), gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT), globulin, total protein, creatinine phosphokinase (CPK), sedimentation rate, and triglycerides were found in animals 7 years of age or older with amyloidosis. These serum chemistry values, while increased in chimpanzees with amyloidosis, were generally within normal limits. Immunohistochemistry for both amyloid A protein and amyloid P component-labeled extracellular amyloid in all chimpanzees with amyloidosis was determined. Amyloid was deposited primarily in the liver. Amyloidosis in the chimpanzee is a chronic, intractable, progressive, fatal disease, and appears to be similar to secondary amy loidosis in other species.

Spontaneous disc degeneration in the baboon model: magnetic resonance imaging and histopathologic correlation

Degenerative disc disease is a major source of disability in humans. The baboon model is an excellent natural disease model to study comparable human disease, because baboons are relatively large (adult males 20-26 kg, adult females 12-17 kg), long-lived (30-45 years), well defined, easy to use, and closely related to humans. Published investigations with plain radiographs of disc degeneration in baboons indicated vertebral anatomy and changes that were remarkably similar to those seen in humans, and it would be valuable to determine if magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and histopathologic evaluation would be useful methods for studying the model, as MRI allows multi-planar visualization of tissues without the use of intravenous contrast and it is superior for evaluating disc hydration, annulus tears, and herniations. The thoracolumbar junctions from 47 randomly selected baboons, ranging in age from 2 weeks to 34 years, were evaluated with MRI and histopathology. Excellent correlation with MRI was observed for changes in disc desiccation, height, and age (P < 0.001). The pathologic analysis demonstrated P values of < 0.001 when comparing histopathology with age and MRI results. All severely degenerated discs seen by MRI were in baboons 14 years of age or older.

Blood-sucking lice may disseminate Trypanosoma cruzi infection in baboons

Trypanosoma cruzi (Schyzotrypanum, Chagas, 1909), and Chagas disease are endemic in captive-reared baboons at the Southwest Foundation for Biomedical Research, San Antonio, Texas. We obtained PCR amplification products from DNA extracted from sucking lice collected from the hair and skin of T. cruzi-infected baboons, with specific nested sets of primers for the protozoan kinetoplast DNA, and nuclear DNA. These products were hybridized to their complementary internal sequences. Selected sequences were cloned and sequencing established the presence of T. cruzi nuclear DNA, and minicircle kDNA. Competitive PCR with a kDNA set of primers determined the quantity of approximately 23.9 +/- 18.2 T. cruzi per louse. This finding suggests that the louse may be a vector incidentally contributing to the dissemination of T. cruzi infection in the baboon colony.

Indocyanine green effect on cultured human retinal pigment epithelial cells: implication for macular hole surgery

PURPOSE

To evaluate potential toxic effects of indocyanine green dye on cultured human retinal pigment epithelial cells.

METHODS

Controlled laboratory experiment. Cultured human retinal pigment epithelial cells were exposed to balanced saline solution, balanced saline solution with endoillumination, indocyanine green or indocyanine green with endoillumination. Cells were evaluated by light microscopy, electron microscopy, and a mitochondrial dehydrogenase assay.

RESULTS

Retinal pigment epithelial cells exposed to indocyanine green showed no histologic or ultrastructural changes. Those exposed to indocyanine green alone or indocyanine green plus light demonstrated a significant decrease in mitochondrial enzyme activity (P = 0.0002 and 0.005, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Brief exposure of cultured human retinal pigment epithelial cells to indocyanine green results in decreased mitochondrial enzyme activity but does not appear to influence cellular morphology or ultrastructure.

Expression of stress proteins alpha B-crystallin, ubiquitin, and hsp27 in pallido-nigral spheroids of aged rhesus monkeys

Ubiquitin and alpha B-crystallin belong to a class of proteins which are overexpressed in a variety of human neuropathological conditions associated with increased cellular stress. In this study we have examined the brains of aged rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta; n = 10, mean age: 29.7 years) using antibodies against the stress proteins ubiquitin, alpha B-crystallin, and heat shock protein 27 (hsp27). Here, we demonstrate an increased expression of ubiquitin, alpha B-crystallin, and hsp27 in spheroid bodies predominantly localized in the globus pallidus and pars reticulata of the substantia nigra. A portion of the pallido-nigral spheroids also contained ferric iron as highlighted by Perls' staining. On the basis of these findings we advance the hypothesis that expression of ubiquitin, alpha B-crystallin, and hsp27 in pallido-nigral spheroids of aged rhesus monkeys represents a stress response possibly related to increased iron-mediated oxidative stress.

Nonhuman primate dermatology

Clinical skin disease in the NHP is common and generally similar in appearance, clinical approach, and therapy to that seen in other animals and humans. Because most skin diseases of NHP are potentially zoonotic, care must be taken when handling the animals. Traumatic injury to the skin with secondary bacterial infection is the most common condition seen clinically. Virus-induced skin disease is probably the next most commonly seen, followed by mycotic infections, parasitisms, cancer, and miscellaneous rare conditions.

Apoptotic colonic disease: a new entity in a primate

A Macaca fascicularis died following chronic, intractable diarrheas. At autopsy, the entire colon was macroscopically red and swollen. At histology, the most conspicuous histologic finding was a marked accumulation of intraepithelial apoptotic granules in the lower one third of the epithelium of the colonic crypts. The cells in those crypts showed various degrees of swelling or necrobiosis. Since no other explanation was found at autopsy, it was concluded that the marked apoptosis with marked epithelial cell destruction was the cause of the colonic disease which apparently resulted in untreatable protracted diarrheas in this animal. The term apoptotic colonic disease is proposed for this previously unreported condition.

Chronic colitis in baboons: similarities with chronic colitis in humans

In recent years, a substantial number of baboons died at the Southwest Foundation for Biomedical Research following protracted intractable diarrheas. The histopathologic diagnosis at autopsy was chronic colitis. The diarrhea could last for more than one year and occurred in infants, juveniles or young adult baboons, i.e. < or = 8 years of age (a healthy baboon may live up to 27 years). The aim was to assess the histopathologic subtype of chronic colitis in a relatively large number of colonic specimens obtained at autopsy (n = 132). In 88 out of 132 baboons with chronic diarrhea, the colonic mucosa was well preserved for histological examination. At review, various histological phenotypes of chronic colitis were disclosed in 86 of the 88 baboons. Chronic lymphocytic-plasmacytic colitis was found in 54.6% (47 out of 86), chronic ulcerative colitis in 15.1% (13 out of 86), Crohn's colitis in 12.8% (11 out of 86), superficial lymphocytic colitis in 10.5% (9 out of 86), cryptal lymphocytic colitis in 5.8% (5 out of 86) and collagenous colitis in 1.2% (1 out of 86). Chronic ulcerative colitis, Crohn's colitis, superficial lymphocytic colitis and collagenous colitis in baboons closely mimic corresponding histological phenotypes of chronic colitis in humans. Recently, cryptal lymphocytic colitis has also been found in humans. The awareness that chronic colitis in baboons is not one disease but a series oi chronic inflammatory changes, having common clinical symptoms and similar gross appearance, may lead to the correct diagnosis of the subtype of the disease. Only then would it be feasible to systematically initiate the search for the corresponding etiologic agent(s), aiming to tailor specific therapeutic strategies in those animals.

Age-related progression of tau pathology in brains of baboons

Recently, cytoskeletal changes associated with abnormally phosphorylated tau protein were demonstrated in neurons and glial cells of two aged baboons (Papio). The present study examines the effects of age on the development of tau pathology in baboons. Brains of 50 baboons ranging in age from 1 to 30 years were categorized into four age groups: Group I: 1-10 years [n = 9], group II: 11-20 years [n = 13], group III: 21-25 years [n = 17], group IV: 26-30 years [n = 11]). Whole hemisphere sections (100 microm) were examined using phosphorylation-dependent anti-tau antibodies. Cytoskeletal changes were completely absent in animals of group I. In group II four animals (31%) exhibited cytoskeletal changes which were rated as mild or moderate. In group III abnormal tau was found in 12 brains (71%) ranging in severity from mild to severe. Finally, in group IV 10 out of 11 animals (91%) exhibited some degree of tau pathology which was rated as severe in 4 animals (36%). A statistically significant relationship was found between advancing age and progression of tau pathology in baboons. In conclusion, the present findings underline the value of the baboon as a potential nonhuman primate model for age-related tau pathology afflicting the human brain.

Microstructural heterogeneity and the fracture toughness of bone

Age-related changes in the skeleton often lead to an increase in the susceptibility of bone to fracture. The purpose of this study was to determine whether differences in material properties between the osteonal and interstitial regions of bone have an effect on bone fracture properties. Parameters such as longitudinal fracture toughness, transverse fracture toughness, porosity, interstitial microhardness, osteonal microhardness, bone density, and weight fractions of the mineral and organic phases of bone were examined as a function of age using female baboon femurs. With increasing age, the longitudinal fracture toughness decreased significantly as did transverse fracture toughness, whereas the interstitial microhardness increased. However, no significant differences in the other parameters were observed as a function of age. Using the ratio of interstitial microhardness to osteonal microhardness as a measure of the differences in the material properties in these two regions, correlation analysis revealed that the longitudinal fracture toughness of bone has a significant correlation with the microhardness ratio. Localized differences in material properties between osteonal and interstitial regions of bone increase with age; such differences may result in high stress concentrations at cement lines and facilitate longitudinal crack propagation.

Teratoma with trisomy 16 in a baboon (Papio hamadryas)

A teratoma was found during a planned cesarean section in a 10-year-old primigravida baboon. This teratoma had a female sex chromosome complement and trisomy for chromosome 16. This is the first report of a teratoma in a baboon and the first report of a chromosomal abnormality in a nonhuman primate teratoma. It is also the first case in a nonhuman primate to address the mechanism of origin. Through the use of genetic markers from human chromosomes 5, 8 and 17, the origin of the teratoma was shown to be most consistent with failure of meiosis II or endoreduplication in a mature ovum, while the trisomy for chromosome 16 originated after the formation of the tumor.