A Review on Zoonotic Pathogens Associated with Non-Human Primates: Understanding the Potential Threats to Humans

Abstract

Non-human primates (NHP) share a close relationship with humans due to a genetic homology of 75–98.5%. NHP and humans have highly similar tissue structures, immunity, physiology, and metabolism and thus often can act as hosts to the same pathogens. Agriculture, meat consumption habits, tourism development, religious beliefs, and biological research have led to more extensive and frequent contact between NHPs and humans. Deadly viruses, such as rabies virus, herpes B virus, Marburg virus, Ebola virus, human immunodeficiency virus, and monkeypox virus can be transferred from NHP to humans. Similarly, herpes simplex virus, influenza virus, and yellow fever virus can be transmitted to NHP from humans. Infectious pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, and parasites, can affect the health of both primates and humans. A vast number of NHP-carrying pathogens exhibit a risk of transmission to humans. Therefore, zoonotic infectious diseases should be evaluated in future research. This article reviews the research evidence, diagnostic methods, prevention, and treatment measures that may be useful in limiting the spread of several common viral pathogens via NHP and providing ideas for preventing zoonotic diseases with epidemic potential.

The Impact and Effects of Host Immunogenetics on Infectious Disease Studies Using Non-Human Primates in Biomedical Research

“…Hence, although not specifically defined, differences in outcomes will inevitably have a host genetic basis. Understanding novel disease threats and pathogenesis from pathogens of different NHP species [ 137 ] or where pathogens are difficult to study, as in the case of viruses inducing highly pathogenic haemorrhagic disease in a given host, disease pathogenesis and putative vaccine efficacy and immunogenicity studies may be undertaken. Studies on Kyasanur forest disease virus and Alkhurma haemorrhagic disease, for example, agents with high pathogenic potential, have been conducted in pig-tailed macaques [ 138 ].…”

Unlocking the power of nature: Safeguarding refrigerated camel meat with herb‐extracted (Anethum graveolens leaves) zinc nanoparticles

“…11,12 Campylobacter, Salmonella, Clostridium perfringens, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli O157:H7, Yersinia enterocolitica, and Listeria monocytogenes are examples of zoonotic microorganisms that can be transmitted through meat or other contaminated food. 13,14 The presence of these pathogens in consumed food poses a high risk to human health because of their ability to produce toxins. 15 Zinc is normally found as a nutrient for the body either naturally in some foods or as a supplement, which is beneficial for health.…”