Primate models for human therapeutics?

The use of primate models for human therapeutics has several advantages and challenges, as discussed by Andrew Huberman and his guests.

Key Insights on Primate Models:

1. Differences Between Mouse and Primate Models:

   • Andrew Huberman notes the significant differences between primate brains and rodent brains, which can impact the validity of translational research from rodent models to human therapeutics. Primate brains, especially those of old-world monkeys, share more structural and functional similarities with human brains, making them more reliable for certain types of studies 1.

2. Examples of Failures in Rodent-only Studies:

   • Karen Parker mentions that drugs like thalidomide and MPTP had severely negative consequences in humans despite appearing safe in rodent models. These drugs were later found to have adverse effects in primate studies, highlighting the importance of using primate models in preclinical testing 1.

3. Development of Primate Models for Autism:

   • Karen Parker discusses her work in developing a primate model to study autism. Unlike rodents, primates like rhesus macaques exhibit complex social behaviors and impairments naturally occurring in the species, making them better approximations for studying core autism symptoms 2.

4. MDMA Studies:

   • Primate studies on MDMA suggest it might not be as neurotoxic as rodent studies indicate. The complexities revealed in primate studies underscore the necessity of using more human-like models for accurate data on drug effects 3.

     Primate Models

     Karen Parker

     Andrew Huberman

     Andrew Huberman and Karen Parker discuss the limitations of mouse models in research and advocate for the use of primate models, highlighting the differences in brain structure and the potential for more accurate conclusions in human therapeutics.

     

     Huberman Lab

     Dr. Karen Parker: The Causes & Treatments for Autism

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Overall, Andrew Huberman and his colleagues emphasize the need for thoughtful application of primate models in research. While they are not advocating a wholesale shift from rodent to primate studies, they stress the importance of selecting appropriate animal models based on the research question, particularly when human-specific outcomes are critical 1.