Center for Alternatives to Animal Testing

Center for Alternatives to Animal Testing (CAAT) is a research and advocacy organization that aims to promote and develop methods to replace, reduce, and refine the use of animals in scientific research, testing, and education. Established in 1981, CAAT is based at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.

History

The Center for Alternatives to Animal Testing was founded in 1981 by a coalition of scientists and animal welfare advocates who recognized the need for a scientific approach to animal welfare and the use of animals in research. The center was established with the goal of promoting and developing alternatives to animal testing that are scientifically valid and ethically sound.

Mission

CAAT's mission is to promote and develop alternatives to animal testing that are more humane, more efficient, and applicable to human health and safety. The center focuses on three main areas: research, education, and policy. In the area of research, CAAT funds and conducts studies to develop new testing methods that do not involve animals. In education, the center provides training and resources for scientists, educators, and students. In policy, CAAT works to influence legislation and regulations related to animal testing.

Research

CAAT's research program is focused on developing and promoting alternatives to animal testing. This includes in vitro methods, computational models, and other non-animal methods. The center also conducts research to improve the welfare of animals that are still used in research.

Education

CAAT provides education and training for scientists, educators, and students in the field of alternatives to animal testing. This includes workshops, seminars, and online resources. The center also offers a graduate program in animal alternatives in collaboration with the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.

Policy

CAAT works to influence policy and regulations related to animal testing. This includes advocating for the acceptance and implementation of alternative methods in regulatory testing, and promoting transparency and accountability in the use of animals in research.

See also

• Animal testing
• In vitro
• Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health