Experimental Tibetan monkey domestication and its application for intraocular pressure measurement

Int J Ophthalmol. 2012;5(3):277-80. doi: 10.3980/j.issn.2222-3959.2012.03.05. Epub 2012 Jun 18.

Abstract

Aim: To train Tibetan monkey (Macaca thibetana) for intraocular pressure (IOP) measurement in conscious state and obtain normal IOP in conscious Tibetan Macaque.

Methods: The training was based on award-conditioned behavior. Food stimulation and human-animal interaction were used in this training.

Results: Trained Tibetan monkeys calmly accepted IOP measurement by the TonoVet® rebound tonometer without sedation or anesthesia and their IOP values were similar to other primates.

Conclusion: Human-cultivated Thibetan monkeys are tamable, and can be used for biomedical research such as ophthalmic research without anesthesia.

Keywords: Macaca thibetana; conscious intraocular pressure measurement; domestication.