The conclusiveness of less-invasive imaging techniques (computer tomography, X-ray) with regard to their identification of bone diseases in a primate model (Callithrix jacchus).

BACKGROUND: Although common marmosets seem to be appropriate animal models to examine bone diseases, no data about the conclusiveness of less-invasive techniques are available. Therefore, the aim was to combine different techniques to analyse changes in bone metabolism of common marmosets with bone diseases. METHODS: Five monkeys were examined by X-ray, computer tomography (CT), histology and immunohistochemistry (IHC). RESULTS: Monkeys with lowest bone mineral density (BMD) showed increased bone marrow, decreased cancellous bone and decreased contrast in X-ray. Highest alkaline phosphatase (AP)-levels were detected in bones with low elastic modulus. Expression of osteopontin (OPN), osteocalcin (OC) and runt-related transcriptions factor 2 (RUNX 2) was detected in bones with high modulus. No expression was present in bones with lower modulus. Collagen type I and V were found in every bone. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, CT, X-ray and AP are useful techniques to detect bone diseases in common marmosets. These observations could be confirmed by IHC.