An animal model that reflects human disease: the common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus)

► The common marmoset is a new world primate weighing between 350 and 400 g. ► Marmosets are exquisite NHP models for viral, protozoan, bacterial agents as well as prions. ► Marmosets have emerged as a viable model for studying high biocontainment pathogens. ► Models have been described for Ebola, Marburg, Lassa, SARS-CoA and EEE viruses. ► Use of marmosets will accelerate development of countermeasures to high consequence pathogens.