Experimental cholera in monkeys

: The immune response to Vibrio cholerae was studied in baboons, rhesus monkeys and marmosets inoculated by the oral, intraintestinal or intravenous route with various strains of V. cholerae. Sera were collected from all animals on days 2, 6, 10, 17, 24, 32, 45 and 60 after infection. Serum protein, immunoglobulins (IgA, IgG, IgM), GOT, and alkaline phosphatases were determined. The results showed that baboons and rhesus monkeys were not susceptible to cholera infection under these experimental conditions. However, we were able to induce a lethal cholera infection in cotton-topped marmosets. In baboons and rhesus monkeys serum IgG levels decreased significantly following inoculation with V. cholerae; however, the ratio of GOT, alkaline phosphatase and antibodies against toxin were only slightly modified.