Lung function assessment in the common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus) for the evaluation of translational nonhuman primate models of lung inflammation

Introduction: Similar to the established rodents models, new translational nonhuman primate models in marmoset monkeys (Callitrix jacchus) require data about lung function. In order to gain physiological and pathological baseline data, we tested our hypotheses, that A) animals develop airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) after pulmonary LPS-challenge and B) house-dust-mite (HDM) allergen sensitized individuals show AHR after allergen challenge. Methods: A custom-made lung-function device was specifically built for marmoset monkeys. It allows inhalation of any defined aerosol dose by simultaneous measurement of lung…