Animals & science
Animals are being studied in various research disciplines, for example: behavioral science, biology and ecology. Goals might vary, such as gaining insight into the relationships between animals and their environment. Or to investigate unique traits of animals in order to develop new technologies for humans. Some animals also play a role in science by undergoing tests. Researchers expose the animals to interventions in order to obtain information, for example about biological processes. Moreover, there are experiments mandated by (European) regulations, such as testing the effects of chemicals or new medications for diseases in humans and/or other animals.
The main goal for animal-free innovations is to replace research methods that include animal testing nowadays. One of these innovations are organoids and (multi-)organ-on-a-chip technologies. Organoids are 3D structures grown from human or animal stem cells, with the purpose to mimic organ functions in the lab. By combining multiple organoids into a multi-organ-on-a-chip, interactions between organs can be studied under both healthy and unhealthy conditions. This offers opportunities for the development of medicine.
The main goal for animal-free innovations is to replace research methods that include animal testing nowadays. One of these innovations are organoids and (multi-)organ-on-a-chip technologies. Organoids are 3D structures grown from human or animal stem cells, with the purpose to mimic organ functions in the lab. By combining multiple organoids into a multi-organ-on-a-chip, interactions between organs can be studied under both healthy and unhealthy conditions. This offers opportunities for the development of medicine.
PhD candidate Mila Rep is developing a multi-organ-on-a-chip for obesity and studies both its technological feasibility and societal implications. Is it possible to let an organ as a kidney and fat tissue interact accurately on such a chip? Is this model more suitable than an obese mouse for obesity research? Additionally, questions arise about its desirability: What is the added value of this technology in obesity research? By collaborating with stakeholders at an early stage, Mila Rep aims to create an ethical and responsive model to drive scientific progress.
Although multi-organ-on-a-chip models are often presented as an alternative to animal testing, the question remains whether they can provide an answer to the same research questions. Perhaps they offer entirely new insights by allowing us to study the interaction between specific organs in a controlled manner. That is something we need to further explore.
An alternative perspective towards alternatives for animal testing
In the search for new research methods, there is a forthcoming view that alternatives can solve all ethical dilemmas: animal-free innovation would lead to better science and less animal suffering. Is it helpful or might it even stand in the way of the progress that society aims to achieve Dr. Koen Kramer advocates a more realistic view towards animal-free innovations.
Animal-free innovation is often presented as a 'win-win' for both humans and animals, but this overlooks the fact that conflicts of interest do exist when it comes to implementing animal-free testing methods and phasing out animal experiments. It is important to acknowledge these conflicts, carefully weigh the interests of different parties, and minimize the negative consequences for those who stand to lose.
In December 2024, Dr. Koen Kramer wrote an advisory report for the Dutch Association for Bioethics, titled: Ethical Issues and Choices in Animal-Free Innovation: From the Win-Win Frame to a Positive-Sum Game.
Dr. Koen Kramer emphasizes that the shift towards fewer animal testing inevitably raises new societal questions. Consider, for example: "What responsibilities exist toward donors when growing human tissues?", "How much uncertainty is acceptable regarding the reliability of a new method?", and "How does the human interest in the best possible science relate to the moral duty to prevent animal suffering?" These questions illustrate the ethical discussions needed to support responsible decision-making during this transition.
System change
What the transition reveals is that it is not only about developing new technologies. A shift in thinking is required at all societal levels, including accommodation and action from many different stakeholders. Currently, (European) regulations mandate various tests that include animals, such as testing the effects of chemicals found in products like pesticides, cosmetics, and food packaging, to establish safety standards for humans, animals, and the environment. Transitioning to animal-free safety assessments requires adjustments between EU regulations, national governments, various industries, end users, and many other groups.
PhD Candidate Sophie van Wijk focusses, within the AFARA project, on the societal aspects of the system change toward a robust and animal-free safety assessment of chemicals. How has integration taken place in the past and present, and what lessons can we learn from it? How can we incorporate new insights more quickly within existing procedures? And how can different groups collaborate more effectively to drive this transformation forward?
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