Page 145 - SAMRC AnnualReport 2025-26

P E R FOR M A NC E I N FOR M A T I ON

Primate Unit and
Delft Animal Centre

UNIT DIRECTOR:
Dr. Chesa Chauke
chesa.chauke@mrc.ac.za

Overview of the Research Unit Key Milestones and Achievements

The Primate Unit and Delft Animal Centre (PUDAC) During the 2025/2026 fiscal year, PUDAC focused on
is a research facility registered with the South strengthening its research capacity, infrastructure,
African Veterinary Council (SAVC), dedicated to and strategic collaborations to advance biomedical
promoting health through high-quality, ethical sciences and support impactful health research.
preclinical research. Operating in accordance A primary goal was upgrading research facilities
with national regulations and standards, including to meet regulatory standards and enhance
SANS 10386: 2021, the facility maintains the highest experimental capabilities. Notable initiatives
standards of animal welfare and scientific integrity included completing Animal BSL-2 renovations for
in all its activities. Species 1, beginning the second phase of ABSL-2
for Species 2, and expanding the rodent research
PUDAC supports the development of new drugs facility with auxiliary spaces and a second HVAC
and vaccines targeting major global health system to ensure optimal environmental conditions.
challenges, including HIV/AIDS, infectious diseases, Additionally, outdoor enclosures for vervet monkeys
and non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Through were constructed to promote natural behaviours
partnerships with local and international research
institutions, the centre contributes to innovations
with the potential to improve public health outcomes
both in South Africa and worldwide. Ongoing
investment in infrastructure and service delivery
further underpins its long-term sustainability and
competitiveness.
The facility contains specialised animal resources,
including captive-bred rhesus macaques for HIV/
AIDS vaccine research and vervet monkeys for
metabolic and non-communicable disease studies.
PUDAC also supports research with additional
resources, such as a horse herd for blood products
and access to rodent models for early-stage
research and training initiatives.
Through ongoing infrastructure upgrades and
the expansion of research capabilities, PUDAC
continues to strengthen its role as a key platform
for translational science. Current initiatives include
advancing HIV research models and developing
diet-induced disease models, thereby broadening PUDAC staff members receiving training on
laboratory safety and compliance workshop.
opportunities for collaboration and impact across
the biomedical research landscape.

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