Rhesus macaque

The rhesus macaque is an adaptable Old World monkey native to South, Central, and Southeast Asia. Its close relationship to humans has made it a major model organism in biomedical research.

Macaca: Macaca is a genus of Old World monkeys found across Asia and parts of North Africa. Rhesus macaques are one species within this widespread genus.
Biomedical research: Biomedical research investigates biological processes and diseases to improve understanding of health. Rhesus macaques serve as animal models for studying human biology and disease.
South Asia: South Asia is the region encompassing the Indian subcontinent and nearby countries. The species is native to this region and especially widespread in India.
Toque macaque: The toque macaque is a small macaque species endemic to Sri Lanka. Its restricted island range contrasts with the rhesus macaque’s broad continental distribution.
Old World monkey: Old World monkeys are primates native to Africa and Asia, distinct from apes and New World monkeys. Their narrow nostrils and other traits place rhesus macaques in this primate group.
Rhesus macaque genome: The rhesus macaque genome is the species’ complete genetic sequence, published as a reference in 2007. Comparisons with human DNA help identify shared genes and evolutionary changes.
Southeast Asia: Southeast Asia is the region between eastern India and southern China and the western Pacific. Rhesus macaques’ native range extends into parts of this region.
Japanese macaque: The Japanese macaque is a macaque native to Japan, known for living in cold climates. It is a close relative with a much more northerly range.
Primate: Primates are mammals that include lemurs, monkeys, apes, and humans. This broader order situates the macaque among mammals with grasping hands and forward-facing eyes.
Poliovirus vaccine: Poliovirus vaccines induce immunity against poliovirus, which can cause paralysis. Rhesus macaques were used in early polio research and vaccine testing.

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