Alternatives to animal experimentation
BMJ 2007; 334 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.39058.469491.68 (Published 25 January 2007) Cite this as: BMJ 2007;334:182All rapid responses
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Dear Sir,
in his article Watts tries to give an overview over the most commonly used
alternatives to animal studies. Thank you for bringing this important subject to our attention (again).
My grandfather (who used to be a Paediatrician) always pointed out that "a
healthy rabbit ear reacts differently from an ill human leg". This seems
to be obvious, but this doesn't tell the truth about animal studies. The
advantage is to see the reaction of a whole organism, not only the
affected organ. Side effects are typically not forseeable, especially when
affecting other organ systems. A good example might be Thalidomide.
The positive effect of animal studies has been shown since more than 150
years. The first canulation of a jugular vein was performed in dogs. In
1921 Banting and McLeod injected Insulin in a dog before trying in humans.
The concept of microdose will not reveal all side effects immediately, and
toxic effects might be missed. Imagine a microdose of insulin given to a
patient: Even in our era the microchanges in blood glucose levels can be
missed.
Last but not least animal studies are essential for the safety of the
fetus- we should be able to tell pregnant women whether there might be a
risk in taking a new drug.
So, all in all there are no real alternatives to animal studies- but the
selection of projects should be considered carefully. And, of course, the
results should be taken seriously.
Competing interests:
None declared
Competing interests: No competing interests
Simulated experiments--a possible alternative
In today's ever advancing and progressing scientific medical world
basic medical education and research seems pretty uncomprehensible without
involving animal models.
However i am of the opinion that if appropriately designed, planned
and implemented artificial animal models, computer simulations and high
technology driven devices can very well serve the purpose of ensuring high
educational and research standards as well as spare the precious and hotly
controversial animal life.
It all lies in striking a judicious balance in keeping the better
interests of all involved.
Competing interests:
None declared
Competing interests: No competing interests