Animal Research
Michigan State University views the use of animals in research, teaching, education, testing and production as a privilege that requires exceptional ethical responsibility for humane treatment and veterinary care. MSU believes animals should be used only when necessary and when no appropriate alternatives exist. Further, the university believes animals must always receive humane handling, the best possible care, and thorough oversight.
Oversight
Animal research is heavily regulated, with stringent federal and local standards. MSU animals included in research, teaching, education, testing and production are overseen by the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee. All animal projects and courses must undergo review and approval by this committee. Anyone involved in animal-related endeavors is required to participate in a training process and must be approved to work with animals as outlined in pertinent guidelines, regulations and laws.
In addition, MSU is fully accredited by the Association for Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care for our achievement and maintenance of a superior animal care program.
Research
Training the next generation of scientists, animal production and husbandry specialists, veterinarians, and medical professionals, while ensuring their respect and understanding of animal health, remains a fundamental mission of multiple MSU colleges. Animal research plays a unique role in generating new knowledge about the biology and behavior of living things. It also ensures the safety and efficacy of drugs, food sources and procedures to benefit both humans and animals.
Examples of discoveries in biology, disease and the development of life-saving treatments from animal studies at MSU include the areas of:
- Arthritis Blindness
- Cardiovascular disease
- Cancer
- Infection and inflammation
- Liver and kidney conditions
- Neurodegenerative disorders
- Precision medicine
- Congenital Disease and Birth Defects
- Women’s Health
3Rs (Replacement, Refinement & Reduction) Expectations
Animal research proposals are to consider any available options to replace the use of animals with non-animal (in vitro) techniques; if animals are necessary, then refine practices to minimize or eliminate animal discomfort and reduce animal numbers to only those necessary for a statistically-sound study design that provides benefit to human and animal health and our society, with advancement of knowledge.
For more background and regulations related to the 3Rs:
https://speakingofresearch.com/facts/animal-welfare-the-3rs/