World-Class NHP Services for Translational Neuroscience

Atuka is a global leader in non-human primate (NHP) research, offering specialized services for preclinical neuroscience and Parkinson’s disease drug development. With the infrastructure to run large-scale NHP studies in macaques and a deep bench of scientific expertise, we help biopharma and academic partners de-risk, validate, and accelerate CNS programs.

Full-Spectrum Primate Capabilities

Atuka supports standalone and integrated preclinical studies using NHP models—tailored to the needs of our partners working in CNS, neurodegeneration, and Parkinson’s research. Our recently renovated, AAALAC-accredited facility can accommodate up to 150 macaques across studies, supported by advanced imaging, bioanalysis, and functional assessment technologies.

We work closely with partners to design NHP protocols that meet scientific, ethical, and regulatory standards for translational neuroscience.

Designed for rigor, flexibility, and translational impact

Pharmacokinetics & Bioanalysis

LC-MS/MS analysis in plasma, CSF, and brain tissue
Longitudinal PK sampling in macaques
Validated workflows using Shimadzu and Sciex platforms

PET/CT and MRI Imaging

NHP PET ligands: 18F-AV-133 (VMAT2), 18F-FDG, 11C-CFT (DAT), and more
In-house cyclotron & radiochemistry for 18F/11C ligands
Rapid 3T-MRI for structural imaging and surgical planning

Stereotactic Surgery

Precision delivery of AAVs, proteins, or compounds to brain regions or ventricles
MRI-guided stereotaxy optimized for primate anatomy
Suitable for preclinical gene therapy and neurotoxin lesion models (e.g., MPTP)

Telemetry Monitoring

Remote, real-time capture of core physiological parameters
Activity, heart rate, and body temperature tracked continuously
Supports chronic dosing and safety pharmacology endpoints

Functional Observational Battery (FOB)

Regulatory-aligned assessments of neurotoxicity
Behavioral and neurological scoring for early adverse signals
Ideal for CNS-targeting therapeutics in IND-enabling studies

Supporting Services

Tissue & Biofluid Collection

Access to plasma, CSF, and brain tissues
Supports method development, biomarker validation, and PK/PD modeling
Blood chemistry for liver function and toxicity monitoring

Custom Primate Services

Sleep and circadian rhythm studies
Gastric emptying assessments
Urine collection and analysis

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