Furthering my previous post, the 2015 IACUC conference organized by NWABR at Seattle this February left me with this – biomedical study protocols involving animals may not seem to be the most humane choice for many but more often than not, they turn out to be the best available choice.
The conference encompassed many aspects of IACUCs including protocol reviews, reducing regulatory burden, similarities/differences among ‘IACUC’ regulations around the world and much more. Of particular interest to me, though, was a session where researchers shared their experience in using non-primate animals under a research setting; this session showcased ways in which animals were subjects for research, aided research, and were saved by research. The takeaway for me – it’s not just about making use of them but being able to help them in turn. I met many people who not only had the right to work with animals, but felt the responsibility to protect them.
Some of these research teams have had issues such as long turnaround time to get protocols approved (highly disruptive for patients depending on studies like gene therapy) while some others are extremely happy with all the support and assistance they get from the IACUCs.
Such research that aims for the greater good is entrenched in ethical debate, it appears.
Kudos to the IACUCs for their efforts to instill strong ethical standards in every research lab that deals with such fascinating creatures as animals!
Kudos to the biomedical research community for the drive and dedication with which they strive to solve unanswered questions about animal and human health, despite all odds!
Kudos to NWABR for facilitating this great event! Let’s continue the conversation.
“Saradha is a Business development professional with international experience in marketing, inside sales and market research. She brings her MS in Biotechnology with post-graduate studies in business administration and several biotech industry internships to bear as a volunteer in the life sciences “
Thank Research! 