The current state of animal models in research: A review. (December 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Robinson, N. Bryce; Krieger, Katherine; Khan, Faiza M.; Huffman, William; Chang, Michelle; Naik, Ajita; Yongle, Ruan; Hameed, Irbaz; Krieger, Karl; Girardi, Leonard N.; Gaudino, Mario
• Is Part Of: International journal of surgery. Volume 72(2019)
• Page Start: 9
• Page End: 13
• Publication Date: 2019-12
• Subjects: Animal model -- Review -- Three Rs -- Sham surgery -- Surgical training -- Simulation; Surgery -- Periodicals; Surgical Procedures, Operative -- Periodicals; 617.005
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijsu.2019.10.015
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1743-9191

Abstract

Abstract: Animal models have provided invaluable information in the pursuit of medical knowledge and alleviation of human suffering. The foundations of our basic understanding of disease pathophysiology and human anatomy can largely be attributed to preclinical investigations using various animal models. Recently, however, the scientific community, citing concerns about animal welfare as well as the validity and applicability of outcomes, has called the use of animals in research into question. In this review, we seek to summarize the current state of the use of animal models in research. Highlights: The use of animal models has been called into question by the scientific community. Study design, statistical analysis, choice of animal model, and translation to human research remain areas of concern. We review the current state of animals in research, with an emphasis on the 3Rs. Future alternatives to the use of animals in research should be sought.