Read the Spanish translation: Monitoreo de Salud de Chimpancés Naturalmente Infectados con Sivcpz: Beneficios para Chimpancés y Humanos

Abstract

The human immunodeficiency virus type 1(HIV-1) pandemic has prompted considerable interest in non-human primate models of acquired immunodeficiency (AIDS). Several wild chimpanzee populations are known to be naturally infected with simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV), including chimpanzees in Gombe National Park. However, the impact of this infection on chimpanzee health and longevity remains unknown. The chimpanzees of Gombe have been under continuous observation since the 1960s and individual life histories are available for many individuals. In 2004, pathology was added to ongoing observational health and non-invasive virologic monitoring of chimpanzees and sympatric primates at Gombe. On-site personnel were trained in necropsy techniques so that carcasses of naturally deceased primates could be thoroughly, yet safely, evaluated. Although the initial goal was to monitor the health of this population, the project provided a unique opportunity to study the pathogenesis of natural SIVcpz infection. Previous to these studies, natural SIV infections, including that of chimpanzees, were thought to be non-pathogenic. However, our studies revealed higher mortality rates as well as cases of SIVcpz-infected chimpanzees with AIDS-like immunopathology. Our findings thus suggest that SIVcpz may impact survivability of this endangered species. Ongoing research into viral and host factors responsible for disease progression may provide critical clues to understanding the mechanisms of AIDS. While collaboration is common between researchers studying the pathogenesis of human diseases in laboratory settings, this collaboration among veterinary and human health professionals and conservationists has the potential to increase our understanding of disease pathogenesis for the benefit of humans and wild chimpanzees.