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Review
. 2015 Aug;92(2):120-3.
doi: 10.1016/j.contraception.2015.06.007. Epub 2015 Jun 12.

The baboon (Papio sp.) as a model for female reproduction studies

Cassondra Bauer  1
Affiliations
Review

The baboon (Papio sp.) as a model for female reproduction studies

Cassondra Bauer. Contraception. 2015 Aug.

Abstract

Biology and reproduction: Due to their size and anatomical similarity to humans, baboons make an excellent model for reproductive studies. Baboons have a simple short cervix, muscular uterus, ovaries just lateral to the uterus and similar vasculature to that of humans. Because of the size of the animals, instruments designed for use in women can be readily used on baboons. Noninvasive determination of phase of estrous cycle is readily made by observation of changes in perineal sexual skin turgor and color.

Advantages: Some advantages of use of baboons compared to other nonhuman primates is that they are nonseasonal breeders allowing for studies to be conducted year round, have minimal infectious disease risks to humans as they do not carry Herpes B and have a social structure allowing for easy group formation. Baboons serve as good models for many conditions in humans and should be considered for studies investigating reproductive issues.

Keywords: Baboon; Contraception; Gynecology; Model; Nonhuman primate; Research.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Perineal sexual skin swelling indicating phase of menstrual cycle. A. Score 0 and pregnant (bright pink/purple color). B. Score 0 not pregnant. C. Score 1 slight amount of swelling. D. Score 2 moderate amount of swelling. E. Score 3 significant amount of swelling. F. Score 4 fully swollen and ready to ovulate.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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