Non-human primates as a translational model for the study of male reproductive health

Abstract

Male fertility is complex and influenced by genetic, hormonal, environmental and lifestyle factors. However, limitations to human studies necessitate the use of reliable preclinical models to better understand the underlying mechanisms of male fertility. Rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta), with their close genetic and physiological similarities to humans, offer an invaluable model for male reproductive health studies. The suitability of rhesus macaques for studying male infertility is based on similarities in spermatogenesis, hormonal cycles and the way in which assisted reproductive technologies can be applied, and key differences and similarities between human and rhesus macaque sperm structure, function and cryopreservation techniques highlight the translational potential of findings derived from macaque models. Furthermore, insights into the epigenetic and proteomic characteristics of sperm in both species improve understanding of how these findings can help to advance clinical diagnostics, male contraception and fertility preservation and illuminate the regulatory omics of normal reproduction. Thus, the rhesus macaque model offers critical insights into male fertility and studies in this species could contribute to advances in therapies for male infertility.