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Published online 27 May 2009 | Nature 459, 492 (2009) | doi:10.1038/459492a

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Marmoset model takes centre stage

Newly created transgenic primate may become an alternative disease model to rhesus macaques.

David Cyranoski

Japanese researchers this week report the passing of a transgene from a primate to its offspring (see Nature 459, 515–516; 2009.

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  • Interesting work indeed, though on balance I expect that the macaque will remain the non-human primate model of choice for neuroscience and virology. It would be a shame if the threat of animal-rights extremism was to hinder it. Speaking of that if you'd like to show support for animal research and for scientists in the USA who have been targeted by animal rights extremists you can do so by signing the Pro-Test petition at http://www.raisingvoices.net

    • 28 May, 2009
    • Posted by: Paul Browne

  • Readers might be interested in a previous Nature editorial on some of the ethical aspects of primate research, here: http://www.nature.com/nature/journal/v456/n7220/full/456281b.html. There was an interesting trio of Correspondence letters discussing some of the points made: (1) Dr Caminitti http://www.nature.com/nature/journal/v457/n7226/full/457147a.html; (2) Dr Crum http://www.nature.com/nature/journal/v457/n7230/full/457657b.html; and (3) Dr Fieblinger http://www.nature.com/nature/journal/v457/n7233/full/4571079a.html.

    • 18 Jun, 2009
    • Posted by: Maxine Clarke