Rhesus macaque model for ovarian cancer chemoprevention

Purpose: The objective of the study reported here was to explore whether a nonhuman primate model could be developed for chemoprevention of ovarian cancer. Methods: An initial feasibility trial was done with three monkeys to determine tolerance for these drugs and for acquisition of surgical ovarian biopsy specimens. In the study, 19 female adult Macacca mulatta (rhesus macaques) were given fenretinide (4HPR) oral contraceptive (OCP), the combination of 4HPR+OCP, or no medication for three months. Laparotomy was performed before and after drug administration, and ovarian biopsy specimens were obtained to evaluate the potential for this animal as a model for ovarian cancer chemoprevention, as well as evaluating fluorescence spectroscopy and other potential biomarkers for ovarian cancer prevention studies. Results: The monkeys tolerated the drugs, surgeries, and acquisition of multiple ovarian biopsy specimens with resultant minimal morbidity. On initial data analysis, fluorescence spectroscopy was the marker that appeared the most promising. Conclusions: On the basis of results of this study, this model merits further investigation. The rhesus monkey is an excellent candidate for a nonhuman primate model for ovarian cancer chemoprevention.