Transplantation in the Marmoset (Callithricidae)

Summary

The marmoset, a small New World primate, Callithricidae, is known to be naturally endowed with blood-cell chimerism. The high frequency of fraternal twinning with placental vascular anastomosis between young in this family explains this consistent mosaicism. This unique feature suggests hematopoietic tolerance. In anticipation of skin allograft studies to demonstrate immunologic tolerance between twin marmosets, skin autografts were attempted. A successful technique for fitted skin grafts to the chest emerged from the consideration of hair-growth phase, graft size and site, surgical anesthesia, control of infection, and mechanical protection. Of a series of 50 consecutive autografts reported, 48 survived.