Oxytocin in baboon (Papio anubis) corpus luteum

Recently, using a highly specific radioimmunoassay, we have demonstrated that the concentration of oxytocin in the corpus luteum of the human and cynomolgus monkey are several fold higher than in the peripheral circulation. In this study, we have examined the corpora lutea and ovarian stroma from the ovaries of normal adult cycling baboons (Papio anubis) for the presence of oxytocin through the use of immunocytochemical procedures. Tissues obtained at laparotomy were fixed in Bouin's solution and embedded in paraffin; immunoreactive oxytocin was localized with peroxidase-antiperoxidase and 3.3' diaminobenzidine. Six corpora lutea with stroma were obtained--two each from the early (Day 14-20), mid-(Day 21-24), and late (Day 25-30) stages of the luteal phase. Immunoreactive oxytocin was localized in all corpora lutea examined but was absent from all stroma samples. Larger areas of the corpus luteum from the mid-luteal phase showed staining for oxytocin, and the intensity of staining for this peptide was maximal in this phase of the cycle.     

Parturition in a feral baboon (Papio anubis)

During a study of feral baboons at the Gombe Stream National Park, Tanzania, the premature birth of a dead, breechborn infant was observed and photographed. The placenta was immediately eaten and the dead infant carried by the mother for two days. The birth itself attracted little attention from other troop members, but the dead infant was investigated by several baboons, especially three females who had recently become dominant to the mother in a fight.     

Fetal ultrasonography: Normal biometric ranges in the baboon (Papio hamadryas)

Normal biometric ranges for fetal growth in a captive breeding baboon (Papio hamadryas) colony are described. Measurements include crown-rump length, biparietal diameter, binocular distance, head circumference, abdominal circumference, femur length and amniotic fluid index. The pattern of fetal growth is compared with other baboon subspecies and man. The uses and limitations of such data for breeding colony management and optimum utilisation of experimentally derived data are discussed.     

Androgen and estrogen dynamics in the female baboon (Papio anubis)

Androgen and estrogen dynamics were studied in 5 female baboons (Papio anubis) using constant infusions of [3H]androstenedione/[14C]estrone and [3H]testosterone/[14C]estradiol. Blood samples were obtained prior to the infusions and both blood and plasma was used for measurements of androstenedione (A), testosterone (T), dihydrotestosterone (DHT), estrone (E1), estradiol (E2). Plasma was used for measurements of sex-hormone binding globulin (SHBG), and the percents of T and E2 free, bound to SHBG, and to albumin. Blood samples obtained during the infusions were analyzed for radioactivity as purified androgens and estrogens. Metabolic clearance rates (MCR), and transfer factors ([rho]BB; fraction of steroid infused which is converted to and measured in blood as product) and blood production rates were calculated from whole blood data. All urine was collected for 96 h and an aliquot analyzed for radioactivity as the glucuronides of estrone and estradiol and the % peripheral aromatization calculated. The MCR's, calculated in whole blood, of A, E1, E2 and T were 53 +/- 6 1/day/kg, 39.3 +/- 3 1/day/kg, 29.9 +/- 5.2 1/day/kg and 10.1 +/- 2.3 1/day/kg, respectively. Each MCR was different (P less than 0.05) from the others. The PB of E1 was 15 +/- 2 micrograms/day and was not different from that of E2 (12 +/- 3 micrograms/day). The PB of A, 231 +/- 55 micrograms/day, was greater than that of T, 13 +/- 5 micrograms/day. The interconversions of both the androgens (18.9 +/- 3.4% vs 3.9 +/- 1.0%) and the estrogens (48.8 +/- 10.7% vs 4.0 +/- 0.8%) favored the oxidative pathway, i.e. conversion of 17-OH to 17-oxo steroids. The conversion ratio of A to DHT was greater than that of T to DHT (16.4 +/- 2.1% vs 5.3 +/- 0.7%), and A is a more important source of DHT than is T. The percent of T bound to SHBG (80.7 +/- 0.9%) was greater than percent of E2 (36.9 +/- 9.8%) and inversely the percents of T bound to albumin and free (17.5 +/- 0.8% and 1.65 +/- 0.16%) were less than the respective percents for estradiol (60.5 +/- 9.5% and 2.40 +/- 0.27%). The mean SHBG concentration was 54 +/- 6 nM. The peripheral aromatization of androstenedione, 1.36 +/- 0.05%, was greater than of testosterone, 0.18 +/- 0.02%. This difference is, in part, due to the lack of SHBG-binding of androstenedione. The general pattern of androgen and estrogen dynamics is similar to that in women. This similarity is due, in part, to the presence of SHBG in both baboons and women.     

Olive baboon (Papio anubis anubis) as a model for intrauterine research

BACKGROUND: The Olive baboon is a popular animal model for reproductive and surgical research. The Institute of Primate Research, Nairobi, Kenya, has been using the animal for reproductive research for many years. In the baboon, compared with other smaller non-human primates, it is possible to insert uterine probes such as, catheters, curettes and other linear instruments (to cannulate cervix for uterine procedures like flushing, endometrium biopsy, embryo transfer, etc.). METHODS: However we noticed in a few animals this was difficult and problematic, particularly in some stages of the menstrual cycle, in retroverted uteri, in extensive adhesions or in some anatomically unique animals and we have developed a technique called 'Chai technique' for this purpose. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: The Chai technique is unique to the baboon and not possible in human. It does not seem to cause injuries as frequently as uterine perforation and, in our experience, has been surprisingly successful.     

Trisomy of chromosome 18 in the baboon (Papio hamadryas anubis)

Trisomy 18 is usually a lethal chromosomal abnormality and is the second most common autosomal trisomy in humans, with an incidence of 1:8000 live births. It is commonly associated with abnormalities of the lower and upper extremities, having the frequency of 95% and 65%, respectively. A newborn female olive baboon (Papio hamadryas anubis) was diagnosed with intrauterine growth retardation and severe arthrogryposis-like congenital joint deformities. Cytogenetic analysis including G-banding and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) revealed that the congenital abnormalities were associated with chromosomal mosaicism for trisomy 18. Genetic analysis with microsatellites from chromosome 18 confirmed the maternal origin of the extra chromosome 18. This is the first report of trisomy 18 in the baboon, which may be a promising animal model of human disease.     

A Yaba-like condition in a young baboon (Papio anubis)

A rapidly developing proliferation of subcutaneous nodules on the leg of a young baboon is described. Histologically the nodules consisted of plump round cells, many of which contained intracytoplasmic eosinophilic viral-like inclusions.     

Ectopic splenic nodules in the olive baboon (Papio cynocephalus anubis)

Post-mortem evaluation of a female sub-adult olive baboon (Papio cynocephalus anubis) revealed a case of ectopic spleen anomaly. Three spherical masses characterized the spleen anomaly. The splenic nodules were located on the left upper quadrant of the stomach, at the distal end of the pancreas. The anterior nodule measures 1.2 cm, the middle nodule 1.9 cm and the posterior nodule 1.3 cm in diameter. Normal spleen was not observed in this case. All the three ectopic splenic nodules showed normal histological architecture. A case of ectopic splenic nodules in baboon is important in that the spleen malformation can readily be mistaken for a pathological process.     

Testicular steroidogenesis in the baboon Papio anubis.

We recently reported that the baboon testis converts pregnenolone to testosterone through the delta-4 pathway. The present studies were to determine the metabolism of intermediates of the delta-4 and delta-5 pathway by the baboon testis. Fragments (50 mg) were incubated for 3 hr with 10 muCi of the following tritium-labelled substrates: pregnenolone, progesterone, 17-hydroxypregnenolone, 17-hydroxyprogesterone, dehydroepiandrosterone, androstenedione, or testosterone. Pregnenolone was converted to testosterone primarily through the delta-4 pathway, with accumulation of progesterone, 17-hydroxyprogesterone and 20alpha-dihydroprogesterone as predominant intermediates. Similar results were obtained in progesterone incubations. 17-hydroxyprogesterone was not efficiently metabolized by the fragments, while 17-hydroxypregnenolone and dehydroepiandrosterone were efficiently converted into testosterone and androstenedione. Androstenedione was metabolized primarily to testosterone, while testosterone was not a suitable substrate. Some 5alpha-androstanediol was identified in each incubate. These results suggest that although testosterone is formed from pregnenolone through the delta-4 pathway, the delta-5 intermediates are more suitable substrates for testosterone synthesis in the baboon testis.     

Endocrine aspects of social instability in the olive baboon (Papio anubis)

The relationships among social status and the cortisol and testosterone stress-response were studied in the non-natal male members of a troop of olive baboons (Papio anubis) before and during a period of social instability. The unstable period was characterized by dominance interactions that were more frequent, more inconsistent, and produced less linear hierarchies than during the stable period. These changes occurred predominantly among the high-ranking males. Such males engaged in coalitions and consortship harassments at a higher rate during the unstable period than during the stable period. Finally, high-ranking males had the highest rates of involvement in and initiation of escalated fighting during the unstable period, in contrast with the stable period. A number of endocrine correlates of instability emerged. During the stable period, high-ranking males (by reproductive criteria) showed an endocrine profile different from that of subordinates. They had the lowest basal cortisol titers, the largest and fastest increases in cortisol titer during stress, and had elevated testosterone titers during stress. None of these attributes was found in high-ranking males during the unstable period. Males during the unstable period had elevated basal cortisol titers, suppressed cortisol responsiveness to stress, and no longer showed elevated testosterone titers during stress. When psychological advantages associated with social status in a stable social environment were lost, endocrine efficiency previously associated with social status was apparently also lost. Further, high-ranking males, who were most aggressive exclusively during the unstable period, had the highest absolute titers of testosterone exclusively during the unstable period. Thus, elevated testosterone and high levels of aggression were unrelated to social status during the period of social stability, but were traits associated with dominant individuals during the unstable period.     

Synthesis of polypeptides by the cervix of the baboon (Papio anubis)

Administration of oestradiol to ovariectomized baboons caused the epithelium of the cervix to differentiate into tall columnar cells that were ciliated or secretory. Administration of progesterone in the presence or absence of oestradiol altered the appearance of the lining epithelium, suggesting a decrease in secretory activity. Fluorographs of media from cultures of tissue from steroid-treated animals reflected changes in polypeptide biosynthesis which correlated with the morphological observations: 6 polypeptides (Mr 88,000-37,000; pI 5.5-6.0) were observed in all treatment groups and, except for relative changes in intensity, these polypeptides were electrophoretically similar to those synthesized by the endometrium. A new group of low molecular weight polypeptides (Mr 23,000-20,000, pI greater than 8.0-5.5) and a basic protein (Mr 160,000) were synthesized and released in the oestradiol-dominated animal. These polypeptides were distinct to the cervical mucosa since they were not observed in the endometrium or oviduct. Progesterone suppressed the synthesis of the low molecular weight acidic polypeptides (Mr 23,000-20,000; pI 6.1-5.5) but maintained the synthesis of the basic polypeptides (Mr 23,000-20,000; pI greater than 8). Treatment with progesterone +/- oestradiol did not appear to induce the synthesis of any new major polypeptides in the cervical epithelium. These results suggest that oestradiol induces the synthesis of a group of cervix-specific polypeptides and progesterone antagonizes the action of oestradiol in the baboon cervix.     

Primary hyperparathyroidism in an adult female olive baboon (Papio anubis)

During an annual physical examination, a middle-aged adult female olive baboon (Papio anubis) in the time-mated breeding colony at the Biologic Resources Laboratory at the University of Illinois at Chicago was found to have a high serum calcium value (> 12 mg/dl). To determine the cause of the hypercalcemia, additional diagnostic tests, including thoracic and abdominal radiographs and a parathyroid panel (parathyroid hormone (PTH), ionized calcium, and parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTH-rp) assays), were performed. The radiographs did not reveal lesions suggestive of neoplasia. A parathyroid panel was obtained twice. Both times the PTH (23.4 and 46.4 pmol/L, normal = 2.91 to 4.57 pmol/L) and ionized calcium (1.68 and 2.10 mmol/L, normal = 1.31 to 1.37 mmol/L) were increased above values for adult females with normal calcium concentration. A tentative diagnosis of primary hyperparathyroidism was made. After a gamma-radiation scan and magnetic resonance imaging of the neck were done, exploratory surgery was performed to identify and remove the affected gland. After gland removal, the baboon's serum calcium, PTH (1.6 pmol/L), and ionized calcium (1.59 mmol/L) values decreased. Results of histologic examination confirmed the diagnosis of benign solitary parathyroid adenoma.     

The baboon model (Papio hamadryas) of fetal loss: maternal weight,age, reproductive history and pregnancy outcome

Background Several risk factors are associated with the incidence of human stillbirths. The prevention of stillbirths in women is a pressing clinical problem. Methods We reviewed 402 pathology records of fetal loss occurring in a large baboon (Papio spp.) colony during a 15‐year period. Clinical histories of 565 female baboons with one or more fetal losses during a 20‐year period were analyzed for weight, age, and reproductive history. Results Fetal loss was most common at term (35.57%) and preterm (28.61%) and less common in the first half of gestation (11.20%) and post‐term (5.22%). Greater maternal weight, older age, history of stillbirth and higher parity were independent predictors for stillbirth. An exponential increase in the incidence of fetal loss was observed beginning at age 14 years in baboons. Conclusions Fetal loss and maternal risk factors associated with stillbirths in baboons were similar to those documented in women.     

Tracheal stenosis and adenocarcinoma in an olive baboon (Papio cynocephalus anubis)

An adult female baboon (Papio cynocephalus anubis) presented for progressive difficulty in endotracheal intubation. Over a 7-y period prior to presentation, she was anesthetized and intubated 67 times for imaging by using single-photon emission computed tomography or positron emission tomography. Laryngoscopic examination revealed tracheal stenosis. Because of increased anesthetic risk and lack of alternative use, she was euthanized, and partial necropsy focusing on the larynx, trachea, and associated structures was performed. Gross examination revealed rigidity and functional fusion of the proximal 5 or 6 tracheal rings and narrowing of the lumen. Histology revealed ossification of tracheal rings and fibrosis of overlying tissue. In addition, a transmural umbilicated mass was present midway down the cervical trachea on its dorsolateral aspect. Histology of the tracheal mass identified a relatively well-circumscribed transmural adenocarcinoma. The combination of overall histologic pattern, evidence of anaplasia, and results of immunohistochemical staining was consistent with a diagnosis of adenoid cystic carcinoma. Anterior tracheal stenosis is a reported complication of intubation in humans and animals. Primary tracheal neoplasms are rare in domestic and research animals and, to our knowledge, have not previously been reported to occur in nonhuman primates.     

Scanning electron microscopy of ejaculated baboon (Papio anubis) spermatozoon.

Scanning electron microscopy has been used in order to provide the morphological study including comparative measurements of the main parts of the Baboon spermatozoon. If the dimensions of the head and the mid-piece are fairly close to the human spermatozoon, the Baboon spermatozoon is practically twice as long as the human one. In the Baboon spermatozoon, the head appears smooth with only a light ransversal furrow at the level of its posterior third, which probably marks the limit of the posterior border of the equatorial segment. The mid-piece, a conical trunk, is larger in its anterior part than at the level of its posterior extremity. The end-piece appears very short as compared with the total length of the sperm cell. The technical modalities of the preparation and the possibility of artifacts are briefly discussed.     

Ultrasonic determination of fetal parameters in baboons (Papio anubis)

The use of nonhuman primates to study reproductive physiology, fetal development, and neonatal management often depends on the availability of pregnant and fetal animals of known gestational history. The purpose of this study was to establish and correlate normal fetal growth parameters with gestational age in olive baboons (Papio anubis). Normal cycling females were bred to proven males by using the degree of perineal swelling and vaginal cytology to determine onset of ovulation. The subjects were evaluated to determine pregnancy beginning 18 days postmating, using an Aloka-650 diagnostic ultrasound unit, equipped with a 7.5 mHz prostate probe and a 5 mHz transabdominal probe. Ten pregnant animals were then evaluated sonographically every 3 days through day 30 and weekly through day 135 (average gestation 184 days). Measurements included gestational sac, greatest-length, biparietal diameter, femur length, head circumference, and abdominal circumference. Using the means and standard deviations, growth curves were constructed, and the data used to develop predicted value charts for gestational age estimation. Using the predicted value charts established in our study, subsequent evaluation of pregnant baboons in our colony disclosed concordance with actual gestational age.     

Prevalence and laparoscopic appearance of spontaneous endometriosis in the baboon (Papio anubis, Papio cynocephalus).

The prevalence of spontaneous endometriosis was investigated by laparoscopy in 52 baboons (Papio anubis and Papio cynocephalus) of proven fertility. Clinical endometriosis was diagnosed in 9 (17%) and 4 (8%) baboons with or without a previous hysterotomy, respectively. Endometriosis was confirmed by histology in 75% of these animals. The 37 endometriotic lesions were classified as typical (13%), subtle (57%), or suspicious (30%); and the percentage of histological confirmation was 100%, 61%, and 50%, respectively. Lesions were found on the uterosacral ligaments and in Douglas' pouch (46%), on the uterine peritoneum and the uterovesical fold (38%), and on uterine-omental adhesions (11%). Only 5% of the lesions were localized on the ovarian ligament, whereas ovarian endometriosis was not found. This study for the first time demonstrates that spontaneous endometriosis occurs in healthy baboons with proven fertility. It also shows that the laparoscopic appearances, the histological aspect, and the localization of the pelvic lesions are comparable to those found in women. We therefore conclude that the baboon is a good animal model for the study of endometriosis.