NHP psoriasis model

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

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Product Description

Main features and benefits

Clinical Relevance – Overview of human plaque psoriasis: erythema, scaling, thickening, and Th17-mediated inflammation.

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

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

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

IND Ready Packet – Research can be conducted in accordance with GLP principles.

Technical data and verification

Representative data from our IMQ-induced NHP psoriasis model:

IMQ-induced NHP psoriasis model

Application areas

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

• Target validation of Th17 pathway and IL-36 signaling

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

• Mechanism of action (MOA) studies

• Toxicology and safety pharmacology studies to support IND

Model specifications

scope	Specification
Species	cynomolgus monkey ( Macaca fascicularis )
induction method	Apply 5% topical imiquimod (IMQ) cream daily for 5-14 days
study time	2–4 weeks (induction + treatment phase)
critical endpoint	PASI score (erythema, scale, thickness); skin histopathology (acanthosis, parakeratosis, inflammatory infiltrate); IL-17A and IL-36 levels (ELISA/qPCR); clinical photography
packet	Raw data, analysis reports, histology slides, clinical photos, bioinformatics (optional)

❓ FAQ

Q: How does IMQ induce psoriasis-like inflammation?

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

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

A: This model exhibits the same erythema, scale, thickening (PASI score), elevated IL-17A and IL-36, and histopathological features (acanthosis, parakeratosis, inflammatory infiltrates) as the human disease.

Q: Can this model be used for IND support studies?

Answer: Yes. Studies can be conducted according to GLP principles for regulatory submissions (FDA, EMA).

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

Answer: Of course. Our scientific team tailors IMQ application protocols, treatment plans and endpoint analyzes for your specific drug candidate.