Elucidation of the Pathogenesis and Establishment of Treatment and Prevention Methods for Wasting Syndrome in Common Marmosets

2023 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 20K15686
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Early-Career Scientists
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Review Section: Basic Section 42020:Veterinary medical science-related
• Research Institution: Azabu University (2023); Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine (2020-2022)
• Principal Investigator: Mineshige Takayuki 麻布大学, 獣医学部, 客員研究員 (00791584)
• Project Period (FY): 2020-04-01 – 2024-03-31
• Keywords: コモンマーモセット / 消耗性症候群 / ビタミンD

Outline of Final Research Achievements

The common marmoset is a useful primate model for research due to its small size, ease of handling, and high reproductive efficiency. However, mature marmosets can develop marmoset wasting syndrome (MWS), a chronic disease that prevents research. MWS is characterized by emaciation, bone calcification disorders, muscle atrophy, and hair loss.

This study analyzed the role of vitamin D in MWS. Clinical findings in marmosets with MWS matched those of human type 2 vitamin D-dependent rickets (hypocalcemia, high 1,25(OH)2D levels, rickets/osteomalacia, etc.). Additionally, we studied duodenal dilation as a related disease. Clinical and pathological analyses were conducted, and it was proposed as a new disease in "Scientific Reports". The diagnostic accuracy of contrast radiography, plain radiography, and ultrasound was evaluated. While the precise pathogenesis of the syndrome remains unclear, adhesions and ulcers may be involved in disease progression.

Free Research Field

獣医病理学

Academic Significance and Societal Importance of the Research Achievements

この研究の学術的意義は、マーモセット消耗性症候群（MWS）の病態解明に貢献し、ビタミンDの関与を示したことにある。これにより、ヒトのビタミンD依存症2型との類似点が明らかになり、新たな治療法や予防策の開発に寄与した。また、十二指腸拡張症の新規疾患としての提唱は、さらなる研究と診断法の発展を促進する。
社会的意義としては、MWSの理解が深まることで、研究用マーモセットの健康管理が改善され、研究効率の向上につながると考える。さらに、ヒトのビタミンD関連疾患の研究にも波及効果が期待できる。