Hemodynamic and metabolic effects of chronic carbon monoxide exposure in cynomolgus monkeys (Macaca fascicularis).

Cardio-respiratory data were obtained on four adult female cynomolgus monkeys, intermittently exposed to CO for eight months and compared with data obtained from the same animals after five weeks of recovery. Due to CO exposure, the arteriovenous oxygen concentration difference and oxygen consumption decreased and blood oxygen affinity increased. However, there was no significant change in cardiac output and mixed venous PO2. The cynomolgus monkeys adapted to chronic CO exposure by reducing their metabolic rate.