Conservation Biology
In a closed breeding program or if a species is at risk for extinction, it is crucial to prevent inbreeding. For example, by ensuring that closely related animals don’t produce offspring. A healthy breeding program is only possible with extended genealogical research. This requires genetic material (DNA), which can be extracted from blood samples but also from non-invasively obtained materials such as hair follicles, saliva and feces.
DNA is the building block of our genetic material. Because of molecular biology techniques and powerful computers, we are constantly increasing our ability to read and apply this information. The Genetics Group of BPRC is specialised in the genetic characterisation of primates. Among others, this information is used for:
Colony management;
Maintaining genetic diversity is of great importance in every breeding colony. At BPRC this task belongs to the colony manager. Animals are living in groups that are similar to groups in their natural habitat. The groups are composed based on natural behaviour, genetic characteristics and the personalities of the animals. And because the animals are living in groups it is not always clear who the father of a newborn is. Therefore, every primate at BPRC is characterized genetically. As a result, we know the entire genealogy of every primate at BPRC and inbreeding can be prevented. This requires genetic material (DNA). For the genetic characterisation of monkeys, we usually use DNA isolated from a blood sample.
Furthermore, we frequently commit our knowledge and expertise in this field to support other breeding programs, for instance in zoos.
3Rs (Replacement, Reduction & Refinement)
Predisposition, diseases and susceptibility for infections are usually determined genetically. This also applies to the diseases and infections BPRC is conducting its research on. Because we know the genetic background of every animal, we are able to select the right animals for a certain hypothesis. This prevents unnecessary variation and contributes to the reduction of the number of animals that are needed in an experimental group.