A Cross-Sectional Evaluation of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Functions During Aging and Pregnancy in the Cynomolgus Monkey

BACKGROUND: Cardiovascular and hemodynamic status can both be modified by cardiovascular risk factors which themselves depend on housing conditions. METHODS: Cynomolgus macaques maintained in large enclosures allowing them to perform physical exercise and social interactions were evaluated for cardiovascular and metabolic parameters in three age groups (2-4, 5-10, and 10-15). RESULTS: Liver and kidney functions were stable but an important variability of the blood neutrophil count was noticed. In males, an increase in alkaline phosphatase was noted in young animals while lipid parameters were altered over time with increases in triglycerides and cholesterol. Some diastolic disorders were observed in older males. No electrocardiographic abnormalities were observed. Finally, we observed usual physiological changes due to gestation. CONCLUSIONS: Housing conditions closer to those in the wild provide an improved health status over non-human primates that are housed in more crowded housing conditions.