Are nonhuman primates good models for SARS?
2006

Are Nonhuman Primates Good Models for SARS?

Commentary Evidence: low

Author Information

Author(s): Robert J. Hogan

Primary Institution: University of Georgia

Hypothesis

Are nonhuman primates effective models for studying SARS?

Conclusion

Nonhuman primates do not effectively replicate the severe illness seen in human cases of SARS.

Supporting Evidence

  • Multiple studies have shown that nonhuman primates do not develop severe illness from SARS-CoV.
  • Contradictory results from various reputable institutions suggest that nonhuman primates may not be suitable models for SARS.

Takeaway

The study suggests that using monkeys to understand SARS might not be helpful because they don't get sick like humans do.

Methodology

The author reviewed findings from various studies involving nonhuman primates infected with SARS-CoV.

Potential Biases

Potential bias due to the author's perspective and the lack of access to certain virus strains used in other studies.

Limitations

The variability in results among different studies raises questions about the reliability of nonhuman primates as models.

Participant Demographics

Rhesus and cynomolgus macaques were used in the studies discussed.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pmed.0030411

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