Animals In The Research Lab

Animals In The Research Lab

The use of living animals is an important way to solve a medical problem.

Researchers continually seek other models to understand the human organism, study disease processes, and test new therapies. In seeking quicker and not so expensive ways to look for biological information that can be applied to human disease, scientists sometimes study simpler things such as bacteria, fruit flies and a few other things. Researchers have spent many years learning how to sustain cells, tissues and organs from animals and humans outside the body to understand biological processes and develop new medical treatments. Computers allow scientists to analyze vast amounts of data and test new ideas. But, in the end, the results obtained must be verified in appropriate animal systems and, possibly as the final step, in clinical trials using humans who will volunteer.

Before beginning a project, all research proposals involving animals must be reviewed and approved by a committee comprised of scientists, veterinarians, and private citizens.

Animal activist organizations believe that there are no moral reasons for the use of animals in research. This has attempted to slow or halt the work of scientists. Some activists groups intimidate or harass individual scientists, conduct demonstrations, or sometimes commit acts of vandalism. There are a few health professionals who support the activist movement but they truly stand apart from the vast majority of physians and most Americans who readily accept the fact that animal research is necessary to gain medical progress.

The use of living animals remains a very important way to solve medical