State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research (LPBR) is a recognized institute for cutting-edge research on primate biomedical research. LPBR focuses on understanding and unravelling the underpinnings of the research topics related to the occurrence and development of life, stem cells biology, primate animal models for complex human diseases. Based on primates (humans, monkeys), we try to answer important scientific questions, such as gastrulation, pluripotency of cells, to decipher the pathogenic mechanisms of complex diseases, to advance the technological revolution and innovation of biotechnology for disease treatment, for instance to improve stem cell culture and gene editing technology, and ultimately to promote human health.

Research teams from LPBR reported the first gene-modified rhesus and cynomolgus monkeys via Cas9/RNA-mediated gene targeting in 2014 (Cell), first proved the feasibility of generating chimeric monkeys with ESCs in 2015 (Cell Stem Cell) and succeeded in the extended in vitro culture for both monkey and human early embryos in 2019 (Science) & 2020 (Nature) that gives a rare glimpse into the developmental events of gastrulation in primates and offers insights into the new discoveries of fundamental theories in embryonic development, stem cells and diseases study. In 2021, LPBR created the first chimeric embryos of human and monkey that helps unlock the secrets of early human development and continues to expand knowledge for organ regeneration (Cell).