Development of Novel Experimental Models

Here, we exploit our position as the leading UK centre for nonhuman primate research. This gives us the potential to study neural function and develop research models across a range of species from insects to rodents to nonhuman primates to humans. For example, work within the centre is developing novel models that will help us to understand the biological bases of various neurological and neurodevelopmental disorders, these include:

• a primate model of dementia in marmosets
• rodent and marmoset models of autism
• primate models to understand speech and language disorders

By using neuroimaging and behavioural methods, we can also study the brain bases for affective states in humans and non-human primates. Our aim is to improve human mental health and the welfare of primates used in biomedical research.