The current approach to animal research regulation undermines scientific inquiry.
David Mawufemor Azilagbetor1, University of Basel Basel 1University of Basel, Basel, Basel Stadt, Switzerland
Abstract
There is a long history of the use of animals for scientific purposes. To date, animals are still used in research to understand biological processes and advance medical development. Using animals in research raises ethical concerns but is still generally accepted due to the benefits expected from it.
However, the current regulatory approach to animal research seems to be deviating from the rationale for scientific inquiry, which is pursued through animal experimentation.
Animal experiments are required to be reviewed by peers to determine their relevance in investigating specific problems before they are approved. This approach, however, presents a major limitation to scientific investigation. There is a possibility of scientific expert consensus not being in favor of the recognition of the benefit and potential of experiments. One example of this is the century-long research in immunotherapy, which had uncertain benefits but finally led to a breakthrough for cancer treatment. It is fair to say that there is a high probability that projects with great potential are getting “nipped in the bud” in our current system.
For an approach that is supposed to result in ethical animal research, we run the risk of having no breakthroughs. Also, influencing animal research this way, resulting in low efficiency, is the wrong way of employing animals in research, discrediting all arguments in favor of the acceptance of animal research. This is because we may never get the benefits for which society relies on us and allows us to conduct research on animals for scientific advancement.
Biography
David Mawufemor Azilagbetor is a Certified Nurse anesthesiologist and an Advanced Health practitioner.
Currently, David is a doctoral fellow in biomedical ethics who focuses on the 3Rs (Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement), HBA (Harm-Benefit Analysis), and Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement in animal research evaluation and regulation in Switzerland.