The grey mouse lemur: A non-human primate model for ageing studies

The use of non-human primate models is required to understand the ageing process and evaluate new therapies against age-associated pathologies. The present article summarizes all the contributions of the grey mouse lemur Microcebus murinus, a small nocturnal prosimian primate, to the understanding of the mechanisms of ageing. Results from studies of both healthy and pathological ageing research on the grey mouse lemur demonstrated that this animal is a unique model to study age-dependent changes in endocrine systems, biological rhythms, thermoregulation, sensorial, cerebral and cognitive functions.

► We focus on several biological systems which are impaired with age in grey mouse lemurs, as in humans. ►Similarities between human and mouse lemur are demonstrated in both normal and pathological ageing process. ►This smaller, rapidly developed and shorter-lived non-human primate could be a suitable model for human ageing research. ►This non-human primate model offer predictive biomarkers of longevity and neuropathological ageing.