Laboratory animal

Laboratory Animal

A laboratory animal is an animal that scientists use in research and experiments. These animals serve as models for the study of physiological processes, genetic relationships, disease mechanisms, and the efficacy and safety of novel treatments and therapies.

History

The use of animals in scientific research has a long history, dating back to ancient Greece. The philosopher Aristotle and physician Galen are known to have performed experiments on animals to understand anatomy and physiology. In the 19th and 20th centuries, the use of laboratory animals expanded with the growth of biomedical research.

Types of Laboratory Animals

Various species of animals are used in laboratory research. The choice of species often depends on the research question, ethical considerations, and practical issues such as cost and availability. Commonly used laboratory animals include:

• Mice and Rats: These are the most commonly used laboratory animals due to their small size, short lifespan, and ease of handling and breeding. They are often used in genetic studies, drug testing, and disease modeling.
• Rabbits: Rabbits are used in a variety of research areas, including immunology, toxicology, and cardiovascular studies.
• Guinea Pigs and Hamsters: These animals are used in studies of nutrition, genetics, infectious diseases, and respiratory physiology.
• Non-human Primates: Primates, such as monkeys and apes, are used in research because of their close genetic and physiological similarity to humans. They are often used in neuroscience research, vaccine development, and drug testing.

Ethical Considerations

The use of animals in research raises significant ethical issues. The Three Rs (Replacement, Reduction, Refinement) is a set of principles that scientists are encouraged to follow to minimize animal suffering and improve animal welfare.

Regulatory Oversight

In many countries, the use of animals in research is regulated by laws and guidelines. In the United States, the Animal Welfare Act and the Public Health Service Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals provide the regulatory framework for animal research.

See Also

• Animal testing
• Animal rights
• Animal welfare
• In vivo