Creating genetically modified rhesus macaques quickly and safely
Official title: Rapid Generation of Transgenic Rhesus Macaques using a Safe-harbor Genomic Docking Site
Funded at Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-10947198 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a quicker way to create genetically modified monkeys that can help us understand human diseases better, making it easier for researchers to study these conditions using these animals.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $263,250 |
| NIH project number | 1R21OD037648-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10947198 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include those with conditions that could be modeled in nonhuman primates, such as genetic disorders or diseases that require advanced study.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by conditions that can be modeled in nonhuman primates may not receive any direct benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a faster and more efficient method for generating genetically modified rhesus macaques, which are important models for studying human diseases. The team at Oregon Health & Science University aims to use a technique called site-directed recombination to insert genetic material into a specific location in the macaque genome. By creating founder animals with a designated docking site, they can streamline the process of gene editing and produce transgenic models more rapidly. This innovative approach could significantly enhance the ability to study complex human conditions using nonhuman primates.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to quicker and more effective models for understanding and treating human diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in using similar genetic modification techniques in rodent models, but this approach in nonhuman primates is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Oregon Health & Science University
Portland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bimber, Benjamin — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Bimber, Benjamin
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.