Mouse lemur facility
The mouse lemur (Microcebus murinus, Cheirogaleidae) is a key model for primate studies. This small, nocturnal lemur (weighing 60g to 100g) is at the base of the primate lineage. It breeds easily in captivity due to its high fecundity (1–3 offspring per year), and its lifespan of 7–12 years allows for long-term studies, particularly on aging. The colony consists of around 100 individuals across all age groups.
All legal and regulatory requirements for personnel and facilities have been met, including Facility approval, Breeding capacity certification for researchers and zootechnicians, Authorization for animal experimentation for researchers and three qualified zootechnicians
Mouse lemurs are housed intwo types of cages are used to house the mouse lemurs:
- aviaries (L=0.70m; W=0.60m; H=1.80m) made of stainless steel, with a 1cm by 1cm mesh suitable for the physiology and movement of mouse lemurs (especially jumping).
- large cages (L=0.60m; W=0.60m; H=0.60m) placed on metal structures designed to accommodate two animals or mothers with youngs.
The reproductive season of the mouse lemur is influenced by the photoperiodic regime. The annual alternation between a phase of activity (long days = summer = reproductive period) and a phase of complete rest (short days = winter = no reproduction) is an essential characteristic of this primate. The mouse lemur reaches sexual maturity at 8 months and remain sexually active and fertile throughout their lives, even beyond 10 years. Female reproductive success increases with age leading to larger litters and higher offspring survival. Outside the breeding season, individuals are housed in single-sex groups of 2 to 5 based on weight.
The diet remains consistent year-round, with individually tailored portions of mash and fruit.
We provide training programs for high school students preparing for careers as animal experimentation technicians. Additionally, all users are trained in best practices for using the model (zootechnics, experimentation, legislation).
This collaborative platform has enabled the development of projects on:
- Active immunotherapy targeting amyloid in young and aged mouse lemurs
- Gene transfer in the brain: LRRK2, KLOTHO
- Characterization of brain aging: cognition, MRI
- Regeneration after spinal trauma
- The effect of aging on heart rate
The Team
- N Mestre Frances, DE1 EPHE, capacitaire, Scientific Director of Breeding
- J Cuoq, Technician EPHE, capacitaire, Technical Director of Breeding
- F Hugon, Technical Assistant EPHE, Zootechnics
- L Renancio, Temporary Technical Assistant EPHE, Zootechnics