Marmoset

The common marmoset is important in studies for safety, reproductive biology, neuroscience, and drug development. Its small size and many similarities with humans, as well as its  differences, make the common marmoset a valued model.

In one area of research, multiple sclerosis (MS), an inflammatory disease of the brain caused by the inappropriate response of one’s own immune system, the marmoset has been key.  Because it has a high immunological similarity to humans, the marmoset helps researchers develop new therapies for MS.

Areas of Vital Research

Research Animals Gallery

Marmoset/Texas, USA

Marmosets and Marshmallows

All nonhuman primates in research are provided access to enhanced care, including social, behavioral and nutritional enrichment. They often receive fruit and vegetables in addition to their traditional chow diet, and many times, the animals will receive treats like marshmallows. Proper enrichment is critical to ensuring the animals are well…

View & Share

Marmoset/Texas, USA

Marmosets and Zika

Marmosets were a critical model for understanding the effects of Zika infections on pregnant mothers.  In mid-2018, six national primate research centers conducted a collaborative study. It showed pregnancy loss due to Zika infections that don’t generate any symptoms in women may be a common, but unrecognized cause of unexpected…

View & Share

Marmoset/Texas, USA

A Geriatric Wing for Marmosets

Texas Biomed’s Southwest National Primate Research Center most recently invested $2.5 million to renovate a 12,000-square-foot building to be dedicated exclusively for marmoset housing and research. Marmosets require subtropical environments and have been studied extensively for infectious disease research. Because they have a relatively short life-span compared to other primates,…

View & Share

Marmoset/Wisconsin, USA

Monkey in imaging

Imaging technologies have greatly reduced the number of animals needed for research.  In the past, animals would have had to be euthanized in order to examine internal organs while today imaging allows visualization and study of what was previously not possible.  Here an anesthetized marmoset monkey is being prepared to…

View & Share

Marmoset/Wisconsin, USA

Marmoset MRI

Researchers view a marmoset’s MRI as part of an aging study to explore links between energy metabolism and neural function.  Diseases related to aging are serious concerns for the world's rapidly expanding population of older adults.  Some of these include: Type 2 diabetes, many cancers, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, obesity, metabolic syndrome,…

View & Share

Marmoset/Wisconsin, USA

Marmoset with a Technician

Research technician prepares a pregnant female marmoset for an ultrasound at the Wisconsin National Primate Research Center.  Because they are acclimated to careful handling through positive reinforcement they are not anesthetized and do not experience any stress during the procedure.  They know and trust their caretakers.

View & Share

Marmoset/Wisconsin, USA

Marmosets with Tech and Treats

These are common marmosets in the lobby of the Wisconsin National Primate Research Center. Dried fruit, grapes, peanuts and other "pocket treats" are provided by their caretakers. This helps provide enrichment and also facilitates the ability to do health checks and other routine care procedures.

View & Share

Marmoset/Wisconsin, USA

Marmoset in his hammock

This monkey is part of a family of common marmosets in the lobby of the Wisconsin National Primate Research Center. Adult common marmosets like this one weigh about 9 ounces. Marmosets are often referred to as "squirrel sized monkeys." Babies are born the size of an adult human's thumb. Marmosets…

View & Share

Explore all of our Amazing Animals!

leftArrowleftArrow