Even after the fever and cough are gone, some people continue to feel unwell following a case of COVID-19 or seasonal flu.  Tulane National Biomedical Research Center (NBRC) scientist Dr. Xuebin Qin and colleagues set out to understand which long-term effects are shared between COVID-19 and the flu, and which may be unique to COVID-19.

The Study

Their new study, published in Frontiers in Immunology, compared how SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19) and influenza affect the body after the acute infection has resolved. Using a carefully controlled mouse model, the team examined lung and brain tissue weeks after infection to identify what kind of biological “footprint” each virus leaves behind. While animal models cannot capture every aspect of human disease, they allow researchers to closely examine biological changes that are difficult to study in patients. The findings may help explain why both COVID-19 and the flu can leave behind lasting lung problems, while long COVID is more often linked to neurological symptoms such as brain fog, fatigue and mood changes.

When researchers studied the lungs, they saw a similar pattern after both infections. Immune cells remained more active than normal instead of fully standing down, and there was an increased buildup of collagen, a protein associated with scarring. These changes can stiffen lung tissue and make breathing feel harder, offering a potential biological explanation for why some people have persistent shortness of breath after respiratory infections.

What Was Discovered

A key difference emerged when the team examined how the lungs were trying to heal. After influenza, the lungs showed signs of switching into repair mode: specialized cells moved into damaged areas to rebuild the lining of the airways. After COVID-19, that repair response appeared to be limited. This suggests that SARS-CoV-2 may interfere with the lung’s natural healing process, potentially setting the stage for longer recovery and lasting respiratory symptoms.

The most striking findings came from the brain. Even though neither virus was detectable in brain tissue at the time of analysis, mice that had recovered from COVID-19 still showed signs of ongoing brain inflammation. The researchers also observed small areas of bleeding earlier in the infection, pointing to potential damage to tiny blood vessels.

Gene expression analysis revealed that inflammatory signaling remained elevated, and that key pathways related to serotonin and dopamine regulation were disrupted. These chemical systems are closely tied to mood, cognition and energy levels, which are frequently affected in people with long COVID. In contrast, brains from influenza-infected animals showed far fewer of these persistent changes.

“In both infections, we observed lasting lung injury,” Qin noted. “But long-term effects in the brain were unique to SARS-CoV-2. That distinction is critical to understanding long COVID.”

Connecting Infection, Blood Vessels and The Brain

The findings suggest that inflammation and damage to small blood vessels in the brain may play a role in long-lasting neurological symptoms. Even without the virus present, these changes can affect how brain cells communicate.

By clearly defining these biological changes, researchers at Tulane NBRC are helping to create a roadmap for future clinical studies. The patterns they identified could guide how clinicians monitor patients after infection, which biomarkers to track, and which pathways might be most promising for new therapies aimed at preventing or reducing lasting damage.

Why This Matters for Patients and Future Therapies

By directly comparing COVID-19 with flu in the same experimental framework, Tulane NBRC investigators provide a clearer picture of which long-term issues are shared across severe respiratory infections, and which are specific to SARS-CoV-2. That knowledge can help clinicians and scientists focus their efforts on where they are most likely to make a difference for patients still waiting to feel fully recovered.

Measles is Making a Comeback

Measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, but that progress is now at risk. As vaccination rates have dropped, measles cases have risen, with the country seeing the highest levels since 1991. The disease remains highly contagious and can lead to serious complications, especially for young children.

Why Explore a Treatment?

The MMR vaccine is highly effective and remains the best protection against measles, and it is still highly effective. With increasing cases, researchers are exploring a treatment option for people who are infected.

What Researchers are Testing

At Texas Biomedical Research Institute in San Antonio, researchers will test a potential measles treatment using monoclonal antibodies. This lab-made protein is designed to interfere with the virus before it can enter cells and spread.

Unlike many antiviral drugs which target viruses after they have already entered cells, monoclonal antibodies can block infection earlier in the process. They attach to specific parts of the virus and stop it from getting into the body’s cells. Monoclonal antibodies may also help reduce viral load and support the immune response after infection has begun.

Next Steps

The antibody being studied, called mAb 77, was developed by researchers at the La Jolla Institute for Immunology and Columbia University. It showed promise in lab and rodent studies, and Texas Biomed will now test it in juvenile rhesus monkeys. If those results are consistent, the treatment could eventually move into human clinical trials.

Will this Treatment Replace Vaccines?

Measles once caused millions of deaths each year before the vaccine became widely available. Today, the vaccine can prevent most cases after two doses. Researchers say a treatment could be helpful especially for those who are immunocompromised or too young to be vaccinated, but the larger lesson is clear: vaccination remains the simplest and most effective way to stop measles from spreading in the first place.

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is one of the most common viruses people encounter, often causing mild or unnoticeable symptoms in healthy adults and children. However, when a person contracts a first-time CMV infection during pregnancy, the virus can cross the placenta and pose serious risks to the developing fetus, including lifelong hearing loss and neurodevelopmental problems. CMV is the world’s most commonly transmitted mother-to-child infection, yet the mechanisms of how this happens across pregnancy have been poorly understood. 

To shed light on this critical gap, researchers at the Tulane National Biomedical Research Center (Tulane NBRC) conducted a study using a nonhuman primate model that closely mirrors human pregnancy. This model allows scientists to observe how the virus interacts with the immune system and the placenta in a living system – something that can’t be replicated in a non-animal model (NAM). Researchers followed pregnancies in animals that encountered the virus for the first time in the second trimester, monitoring maternal health, placental tissues and fetal development over time. 

The research team led by Dr. Amitinder Kaur found that CMV did not behave the same way in every pregnancy. Some pregnancies showed brief or low‑level signs of infection, while others had more extensive viral involvement. Across almost all cases, however, the virus was detected in the placenta, even when fetal tissues showed little or no virus. Notably, pregnancies with higher levels of virus in placental tissues tended to have smaller fetuses at birth, suggesting that the virus may affect fetal growth even without direct fetal infection.  

By comparing immune markers in mothers and fetuses, the researchers also identified patterns that may predict a higher risk of transmission. Elevated levels of certain inflammatory signals and changes in other immune factors were linked to cases where the virus crossed the placenta more readily. These potential biomarkers could one day help clinicians identify which pregnancies need closer monitoring or targeted interventions.  

Why it matters: Congenital CMV is a major public health concern because there is currently no approved vaccine to prevent it, and existing strategies can’t reliably stop transmission. By mapping how CMV crosses the placenta and influences fetal outcomes, this work from Tulane NBRC lays crucial groundwork for identifying at-risk pregnancies and informing the development of vaccines or other preventive approaches in the future. 

A new investigational treatment for Parkinson’s disease is showing early promise in its first human clinical trial, thanks in part to foundational work at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and the Wisconsin National Primate Research Center (WNPRC).  

Parkinson’s disease gradually kills dopaminergic neurons that produce the chemical messenger dopamine, disrupting communication between brain regions that control movement. Standard treatments such as L‑DOPA can boost dopamine levels and reduce symptoms, but their effectiveness often wanes over time, and they do not replace the lost cells. 

In the Phase 1/2a ASPIRO trial, run by biotechnology company Aspen Neuroscience, patients receive transplants of dopamine-producing neurons grown from their own cells, which are then delivered to affected areas of the brain. 

Aspen Neuroscience recently announced that it will enroll a third patient cohort after reporting that participants are safely tolerating the treatment and showing encouraging improvements in Parkinson’s symptoms. According to the company, early data from the first four patients indicate that intracranial delivery of these cells is safe and well tolerated, with both patient-reported and clinician-reported measures showing positive results. Unlike typical organ transplants, because the neurons are derived from each patient’s own induced pluripotent stem cells—a fully autologous approach—no long-term immunosuppressive drugs are required. 

Although UW–Madison is not a clinical site for ASPIRO, scientists at the university and WNPRC played a key role in getting the therapy ready for first-in-human testing. In 2024, a team led by UW–Madison medical physics professor and WNPRC investigator Marina Emborg, M.D., Ph.D., successfully transplanted human progenitor cells into the brains of macaque monkeys. These progenitors were programmed to become dopamine-producing neurons, the same type of cells lost in Parkinson’s disease. Aspen supplied the human cell lines and specialized delivery equipment, while the Emborg lab optimized the surgical approach in nonhuman primates. 

Aspen scientists and WNPRC researchers refined a delivery method that uses MRI-guided neurosurgical techniques to place very small volumes of cells—just a few microliters at a time—into the areas of the brain where they are needed. The 2024 study in macaques focused on demonstrating that Aspen’s human cells could be delivered safely and effectively with fewer surgical passes, reducing risk while still reaching the target area of the brain. Results from this work, published in the Journal of Neurosurgery, supported Aspen’s successful application to begin the ASPIRO trial. 

The ASPIO trial research builds on earlier successes at UW–Madison, where Dr. Emborg and Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health scientist Su‑Chun Zhang, M.D., Ph.D., previously reversed Parkinson’s-like symptoms in nonhuman primates using an autologous cell graft approach. Together, these studies helped validate the concept that individualized cell replacement can restore function in a Parkinson’s model and informed critical details such as cell preparation, quality control and surgical logistics. 

For Dr. Emborg and her colleagues at the Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, seeing the first human patients receive the therapy has been a powerful milestone. Years of iterative work in nonhuman primates—testing cell lines, refining delivery tools and optimizing postoperative care—directly shaped how the ASPIRO trial is conducted today. The early human results offer hope that this carefully developed approach could one day provide people with Parkinson’s disease a new option that goes beyond symptom management to address the underlying cell loss. 

As the ASPIRO trial progresses, the partnership between Aspen Neuroscience, UW–Madison and WNPRC underscores how translational nonhuman primate research can help bridge the gap between laboratory discoveries and first-in-human therapies, particularly for complex neurological diseases. 

Today the NPRCs led a coordinated response to voice concerns about a recent CDC plan to transfer approximately 160 macaques to the Born Free USA Primate Sanctuary.

In collaboration with more than 20 scientific, veterinary and biomedical research organizations, institutions and others, the NPRCs sent a letter to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Director Dr. Jay Bhattacharya requesting a transparent retirement plan that prioritizes the welfare, safety, behavioral stability and long-term quality of life for the macaques. The current CDC plan is inconsistent with best practices for introducing adult macaques into a large social group setting, putting their welfare at risk.

The letter also calls into question the sanctuary’s staffing and expertise to safely carry out a transition of this magnitude and complexity. In addition, the signatories raise additional concerns regarding the validity and accuracy of the CDC’s sole source justification for selecting Born Free as the only qualified retirement option.

The signatories emphasize the welfare of these macaques must be the overriding priority in any retirement decision.

Read the full letter here.

The Oregon National Primate Research Center (ONPRC) is at the forefront of providing hope for patients who face life-threatening conditions.

Take Batten disease, a fatal neurodegenerative disorder for which there is no cure. In 2018, researchers at the ONPRC identified a naturally occurring mutation in Japanese macaques that mimics Batten disease in people; this specific species of macaque is the only known nonhuman primate model in which the condition occurs naturally. The ONPRC team’s long-term stewardship and care of this unique research species continue to provide hope for curing a terminal disorder.

Similarly, recent news about the development of the first personalized gene therapy for “Baby KJ” catalyzed a new treatment pathway toward individualized therapies for rare diseases. The integrative research approach included new approach methodologies (NAMs) and studies in long-tailed macaques (LTMs) to assess safety before treatment (Musunuru et al., 2025).

Both examples emphasize the continuing need for research with animals.

If the United States is serious about making our country healthy, we must protect the full research ecosystem that makes discovering causes, preventions, treatments and cures possible. That structure includes NAMs and research with NHPs when no other scientific models are appropriate. Anything less stands to jeopardize scientific rigor, safety and validity, stall movement toward future breakthroughs and even stop work that holds the promise of improved health for our nation and world.

At the National Primate Research Centers (NPRCs), advancing human health goes hand in hand with a deep commitment to responsible, ethical research. Across all seven NPRCs, scientists are dedicated to improving and refining how research is conducted, investing in innovative alternatives known as new approach methodologies (NAMs) and only using animals when absolutely necessary.

The 3Rs: A Foundation for Ethical Research

Central to NPRC research is the principle of the “3Rs”: Replace, Reduce, and Refine animal use wherever scientifically possible. Before any study involving animals begins, researchers first use NAMs, such as computer models, organ-on-a-chip technology, and 3D cell cultures, to gather preliminary data and refine their experiments. This approach helps minimize the number of animals needed and ensures the highest standards of care and scientific rigor.

The Power and Limits of Non-Animal Models

NAMs are powerful tools for understanding biology and disease. They allow scientists to screen drugs, predict toxicity, and refine dosing without the use of animals. However, while NAMs provide valuable insights, they cannot yet fully replicate the complexity of a living organism. Many diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, cancer, or heart conditions, involve interactions across multiple organ systems, something NAMs alone cannot model.

That’s why NPRC scientists use a hybrid approach: NAMs are used wherever possible, and animal studies are conducted only when there is no other way to answer critical research questions. This ensures that research is both innovative and responsible.

Why Animal Research Remains Essential

U.S. law requires that all new medicines and medical devices be evaluated in animals for safety and efficacy before human trials can begin. Nonhuman primates represent less than 1% of all research animals and are used only when no other species can answer the research questions at hand. Their genetic, physiological, and behavioral similarities to humans make them essential for studying complex diseases and developing new treatments.

NPRCs are committed to the highest standards of animal care and ethics. Studies must be necessary, ethical, and conducted with rigorous oversight. The centers also invest in technologies and methods that refine research and reduce animal stress, such as advanced imaging and noninvasive monitoring.

Leading the Way in Research Alternatives

NPRC scientists are at the forefront of developing and validating new NAMs, with support from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). These efforts are accelerating, but until alternatives can fully replicate living systems, animal studies remain vital for progress in areas like neurodegenerative, metabolic, and infectious diseases.

By using a combination of NAMs and animal studies, NPRCs are able to maximize scientific accuracy, reduce the use of animals, and ensure that research benefits both human and animal health.

A National Resource for Science and Ethics

The NPRCs serve as a national resource, supporting scientists across the U.S. and around the world. Each center is part of a host academic institution and provides specialized facilities, expertise, and training for the next generation of researchers. Their commitment to the 3Rs and to responsible innovation ensures that every study is conducted with care, for the animals—for science, and for society.

After 14 years at the helm of the Wisconsin National Primate Research Center (WNPRC), Dr. Jon Levine stepped down as Director on December 31, 2024, but continues his impactful neuroscience research at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and the WNPRC. Dr. Levine, a professor of neuroscience, is renowned for his studies on reproductive endocrinology and hormone actions in the brain. 

Dr. Levine’s Key Achievements 

• Expanded WNPRC’s research focus, emphasizing collaboration across fields like neuroscience, reproductive medicine, and infectious diseases. 

• Created scientific working groups that spurred innovation, collaboration, and increased grant success. 

• Led development of the WNPRC Scientific Protocol and Implementation Unit (SPI), driving research on HIV, COVID-19, Parkinson’s, and more. 

• Mentored over 15 post-docs, 30 graduate students, and numerous undergraduates, fostering the next generation of scientists. 

Looking to the future, Dr. Levine is excited about ongoing projects, particularly his research on polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), where he and collaborator Dr. David Abbott are studying a subset of rhesus monkeys that naturally develop the disorder. Their work could lead to deeper insights into the genetic and metabolic causes of PCOS, a condition affecting many women worldwide. 

As Levine transitions from his role as director, he remains committed to mentoring the next generation of scientists, with a particular focus on helping junior investigators launch their careers. His legacy includes not only expanded research at WNPRC but also a lasting impact on scientific collaboration and mentoring across the globe.  

Dr. Saverio “Buddy” Capuano, DVM, Associate Director of Animal Services, serves as the interim director while the center continues its mission to advance human health through innovative research. 

To learn more about Dr. Levine and his work as Director at Wisconsin NPRC, click HERE.  

Dr. Deborah Fuller, the new Director of the Washington National Primate Research Center (WaNPRC), has unveiled ambitious plans for the research center). With 14 years of experience at WaNPRC and a background in biomedical technology, Dr. Fuller brings a unique blend of scientific expertise and business acumen to her new role. 

The Approach to Excellence 

Dr. Fuller’s vision for WaNPRC includes: 

• Affirm our identity 
• Build and expand our identity through interdisciplinary consortia and collaborations 
• Enhance communications between research units and between researchers & veterinary staff
• Implement strategies for long-term sustainability 
• Support a culture of: Respect, Restraint, Responsibility
• Support a 3Rs culture of animal welfare: by funding new initiatives to develop refinements and New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) to replace and reduce the number of animals
• Increase our visibility 

Highlighting WaNPRC’s Achievements 

The center has made significant contributions to various research fields, including gene therapy, infectious diseases, neuroscience, and global conservation. In the past year alone, WaNPRC supported 126 grants totaling $118 million in funding and employs over 150 staff members. 

Fostering Innovation Through Collaboration 

Dr. Fuller plans to encourage interdisciplinary research by offering a $150,000 funding opportunity for collaborative projects between researchers from different disciplines. 

Improving Animal Care and Research Synergy 

The new leadership aims to enhance collaboration between researchers and animal care teams, benefiting both the animals and the research they support. 

Expanding Partnerships and Funding Sources 

WaNPRC will seek new partnerships and funding opportunities to improve its financial outlook and increase efficiency while reducing costs. 

Addressing Misinformation 

Dr. Fuller emphasizes the importance of proactively sharing the center’s successes and countering misinformation spread by animal rights extremists. As WaNPRC embarks on this new chapter, Dr. Fuller invites readers to stay tuned for monthly updates on the center’s progress towards achieving its ambitious goals. 

National Primate Research Centers Prioritize Openness for Scientific Progress

At the forefront of biomedical and behavioral research are the seven National Primate Research Centers (NPRCs). They form a vital network dedicated to conducting and enabling groundbreaking research to improve human and animal health. Studies at the centers include development & aging, genetics & genomics, infectious disease, neuroscience & brain disorders, and reproduction & endocrinology. The NPRCs have been instrumental in driving discoveries crucial for overcoming health challenges and in helping the public understand the significance of research that involves animals.   

A Comprehensive Approach  

A priority of the NPRCs is to share information via local, regional and national outreach. Through a multifaceted approach, the NPRCs foster education and dialogue, ensuring openness about their research and the expert care of animals involved in NPRC research studies.   

From participating in local events to leveraging digital platforms, the NPRCs employ diverse strategies to make connections. NPRC.org provides the latest information for the public, and NPRCresearch.org, which is undergoing updates, ensures the scientific community has comprehensive information about the resources the NPRCs offer NIH-funded researchers. Through timely and engaging content, the NPRCs strive to explain the highly regulated research process and showcase their contributions to scientific progress.   

A Legacy of Excellence  

With a history spanning more than six decades, the NPRCs stand as pillars of scientific expertise and exemplars of public outreach. The U.S. Animal Research Openness initiative (USARO) recently featured information about the NPRCs’ outreach programs on the USARO website. This article provides encouragement for other research centers to follow the NPRC lead.   

A Future Filled with Accurate Information  

As the NPRCs continue to make scientific discoveries, their dedication to openness will continue to expand. The NPRCs believe openness helps empower individuals to make informed decisions, is critical to instilling confidence in scientific research and care of research animals, inspires future generations of scientists and ensures the public has accurate information about how research with animals is improving lives.