Due to the phylogenetic relationship and close genetic and biological similarities with humans, non-human primates (NHP) are regularly used in biomedical and behavioural research. However, because of their highly developed cognitive abilities and social skills, the use of these animals in biomedical research is debated more and more. Although it is acknowledged that in specific research areas NHP are still essential, it is recognized that the use of these animals can only be done under strict conditions under the most optimal welfare aspects. Welfare aspects include housing conditions, non-invasive methods and application of the 3Rs policy. Although many refinement methods have been described in nationally and internationally accepted guidelines on animal laboratory practice, recognition of the guidelines is unfortunately not universal. The present book covers a wide range of NHP models in preclinical research and welfare issues. The following chapters will cover: refinement of the use of NHP in biomedical research; NHP ethics and regulations in Europe; biological basis differences in the human and NHP; the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) immunology in NHP; stem cell biology in NHP; neuro and gliogenesis in an NHP ischemia stroke model; NHP models in autoimmune disease, organ transplantation and infectious disease research; viral diseases in NHP; NHP models in Parkinson's disease, in neurodegenerative disorders research and in cardio-cerebrovascular disease research; islet transplantation; ophthalmic diseases research and neurophysiology in NHP; transgenic engineering in NHP; NHP models of cancers; NHP models in respiratory disease research; NHP models in clinical and non-clinical pharmacology; NHP models in lung transplantation; and aging research in NHP. This book encapsulates a large volume of knowledge scientists have achieved in the field of nonhuman primate models in preclinical research. The editors have invited experts from the United States, Canada, and Europe to contribute 23 chapters in their respective fields of their expertise.
Dr. Huifang Chen, currently holds Professor of Surgery at Université de Montréal, Canada, graduated from Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, M.D. (19641970), obtained M.Sc. (19781981) and Ph.D. (19811985) degrees from same university. After working in clinical urology and organ transplantation for 18 years in China, Dr. Chen has undertaken organ transplantation research and teaching in North America since 1988, in collaboration with major pharmaceutical companies, e. g., Astellas Japan, Roche USA, Novartis Switzerland, Wyeth-Ayerst (Pfizer) USA to evaluate new drugs in preclinical studies. Dr. Chen is a visiting professor of three medical schools in China (Fudan University, Soochow University, and Sun Yat-Sen University). He has supervised 55 MSc, PhD, graduate students, post-doctoral trainees, residents, and visiting professors in his laboratory. He is Board Reviewer of 4 medical journals, member of 6 scientific associations, President of International Society for Experimental Microsurgery (20122014). Dr. Chen has published 140 articles and 235 abstracts in medical journals. He is the Chief Editor of the book entitled: Experimental Organ Transplantation published in 2013 by Nova Science Publishers, Inc., New York.
