NHP Psoriasis Models

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin disease characterized by rapid turnover of skin cells, resulting in dry, scaly, itchy patches (plaques) most commonly on knees, elbows, trunk, and scalp. Plaque psoriasis, the most common type, involves immune system dysfunction leading to hyperproliferation of keratinocytes. HKeyBio offers a well-validated NHP psoriasis model induced by imiquimod (IMQ), a TLR7/8 agonist that triggers psoriasis-like skin inflammation through type I interferon and IL-23/IL-17 pathways. This model recapitulates key human psoriasis features including erythema, scaling, thickening, elevated IL-17A and IL-36, and characteristic histopathological changes, providing a robust platform for preclinical efficacy testing of novel psoriasis therapeutics.

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Product Description

Key Features & Benefits

Clinically relevant – Recapitulates human plaque psoriasis: erythema, scaling, thickening, and Th17-mediated inflammation.

Well-characterized endpoints – PASI score (erythema, scaling, thickness), skin histopathology, IL-17A and IL-36 levels, clinical photography.

Mechanism-driven – IMQ activates TLR7/8, inducing IFN-α and IL-23/IL-17 pathway, closely mimicking human disease pathogenesis.

Translational value – Ideal for testing biologics (anti-IL-17, anti-IL-23), JAK inhibitors, and topical therapies.

IND-ready data packages – Studies can be conducted in accordance with GLP principles.

Technical Data & Validation

Representative data from our IMQ Induced NHP Psoriasis model:

IMQ Induced Psoriasis Model in NHP

Applications

• Efficacy testing of biologics (anti-IL-17, anti-IL-23, anti-TNF), JAK inhibitors, and topical therapies

• Target validation for Th17 pathway and IL-36 signaling

• Biomarker discovery (IL-17A, IL-36, other psoriasis-related mediators)

• Mechanism of action (MOA) studies

• IND-enabling toxicology and safety pharmacology studies

Model Specifications

Parameter	Specification
Species	Cynomolgus macaque (Macaca fascicularis)
Induction method	Daily topical application of 5% imiquimod (IMQ) cream for 5–14 days
Study duration	2–4 weeks (induction + treatment phase)
Key endpoints	PASI score (erythema, scaling, thickness); skin histopathology (acanthosis, parakeratosis, inflammatory infiltrates); IL-17A and IL-36 levels (ELISA/qPCR); clinical photography
Data package	Raw data, analysis reports, histology slides, clinical photographs, bioinformatics (optional)

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How does IMQ induce psoriasis-like inflammation?

A: IMQ activates TLR7/8, triggering production of type I IFN-α and downstream activation of the IL-23/Th17 axis, leading to keratinocyte hyperproliferation and psoriatic inflammation.

Q: What are the key similarities with human plaque psoriasis?

A: The model exhibits erythema, scaling, thickening (PASI score), elevated IL-17A and IL-36, and histopathological features (acanthosis, parakeratosis, inflammatory infiltration) identical to human disease.

Q: Can this model be used for IND-enabling studies?

A: Yes. Studies can be conducted in accordance with GLP principles for regulatory submissions (FDA, EMA).

Q: Do you offer customized study protocols (e.g., different dosing frequencies, combination therapies)?

A: Absolutely. Our scientific team tailors IMQ application protocols, treatment schedules, and endpoint analyses to your specific drug candidate.