[16] Animal Models in Biomedical Research Flashcards
What is the topic of the “Animal Models in Biomedical Research” deck?
- Use of mice and other animals in research
- Animal breeding
- Handling of research animals
- Ethical considerations
What are ‘Animal Models’ in Biomedical Research?
Animals used to study disease processes and test therapeutic strategies
Why are mice commonly used in Biomedical Research?
- Genetic similarities to humans
- Easy to breed and handle
- Short lifespan allows for study of many generations
List some other animals commonly used in Biomedical Research
- Rats
- Mice
- Zebrafish
- Fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster)
- Pigs
- Non-human primates
Define ‘Animal Breeding’ in the context of Biomedical Research
The controlled mating of animals to produce offspring with desirable characteristics for research
What are some ‘Ethical Considerations’ in Animal Research?
- Minimizing animal suffering
- Using the minimum number of animals necessary
- Replacing animals with other methods when possible
Define ‘In Vivo’
Experiments done in a living organism
Define ‘In Vitro’
Experiments done outside a living organism, typically in a lab
What is the ‘3Rs Principle’ in Animal Research?
- Replacement
- Reduction
- Refinement
Define ‘Replacement’ in the context of the ‘3Rs Principle’
Using non-animal methods whenever possible
Define ‘Reduction’ in the context of the ‘3Rs Principle’
Using the minimum number of animals necessary to achieve results
Define ‘Refinement’ in the context of the ‘3Rs Principle’
Altering experimental procedures to minimize animal suffering
What is the ‘Animal Welfare Act’?
The U.S. law that regulates the treatment of animals in research
What does the ‘Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee’ (IACUC) do?
It oversees and evaluates animal care and use in research
Define ‘IACUC’
Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee