Project description:The goal of this study was to determine the mechanisms underlying age-associated changes in the heart. Heart samples (n=35) were collected from female baboons aged 7.5 to 22.1 years (human equivalent 30 to 88 years). RNA-Seq data from these samples were analyzed by weighted-gene correlation network analysis and pathway enrichment. The results revealed a metabolic shift from catabolic to anabolic pathways, leading to glycosaminoglycan accumulation in the extracellular matrix of the left ventricle through the hexosamine biosynthetic pathway.
Project description:The objective was to study gene expression in the prefrontal cortex across the adult age using baboons as a nonhuman primate model. RNA-Seq data was analyzed by Weighted Gene Coexpression Network Analysis (WGCNA), and two modules containing 587 transcripts negatively correlated with age were identified.
Project description:We set out to test the hypothesis that formaldehyde inhalation exposure significantly alters miRNA expression profiles within the nasal epithelium of nonhuman primates. Here, cynomolgus macaques were exposed to 0, 2, and 6 ppm formaldehyde for 6 hours/day across two consecutive days. RNA was extracted from the nasal maxilloturbinate region, a direct target of formaldehyde inhalation exposure. Genome-wide miRNA expression levels were assessed using microarrays.
Project description:<p>Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) prevalence is rising with no pharmacotherapy approved. A major hurdle in NASH drug development is the poor translatability of preclinical studies to safe/effective clinical outcomes, and recent failures highlight a need to identify new targetable pathways. Dysregulated glycine metabolism has emerged as a causative factor and therapeutic target in NASH. Here, we report that the tripeptide DT-109 (Gly-Gly-Leu) dose-dependently attenuates steatohepatitis and fibrosis in mice. To enhance the probability of successful translation, we developed a nonhuman primate model that histologically and transcriptionally mimics human NASH. Applying a multiomics approach combining transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics and metagenomics, we found that DT-109 reverses hepatic steatosis and prevents fibrosis progression in nonhuman primates, not only by stimulating fatty acid degradation and glutathione formation, as found in mice, but also by modulating microbial bile acid metabolism. Our studies describe a highly translatable NASH model and highlight the need for clinical evaluation of DT-109.</p>
Project description:We conducted a comprehensive transcriptome analysis of whole blood from male and female nonhuman primates (rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta)) that received upper thoracic radiation. A Varian CLINAC 21EX linear accelerator was used (6 MV Linear Accelerator (Linac)). Body Weight Range: 3.5 to 5 kg (at initial physical exam). Age Range: 3 to 5 years (at initial physical exam).