Urinary neopterin levels increase and predict survival during a respiratory outbreak in wild chimpanzees (Taï National Park, Côte d’Ivoire)

Urinary neopterin levels in wild chimpanzees from Taï National Park, Côte d’Ivoire, significantly increase during respiratory disease outbreaks and can predict survival outcomes. The study analyzed 185 urine samples from 28 chimpanzees before, during, and after a respiratory outbreak, finding that elevated neopterin levels correlated with symptomatic individuals and those who died, some of whom showed increased levels even before the outbreak. This suggests chronic immune activation may precede acute infections in wild animals. The research validates urinary neopterin as a non-invasive biomarker for monitoring immune responses in free-ranging populations, contributing to broader understanding of life-history trade-offs in wildlife.

Wu, D. F., Behringer, V., Wittig, R. M., Leendertz, F. H., & Deschner, T. (2018). Urinary neopterin levels increase and predict survival during a respiratory outbreak in wild chimpanzees (Taï National Park, Côte d’Ivoire). Scientific Reports, 8(1). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-018-31563-7