Prof. dr. R.A.H. (Roger) Adan

“Biomedical research unravels the mechanisms of underlying diseases and forms the basis of drug treatment and other therapies. Although much has improved over the past 25 years in terms of reducing, refining and replacing the use of laboratory animals, animal experiments continue to be necessary for the advancement of medical science and human and animal health. Animal experiments should only be performed if there are no alternatives, and if preceded by a careful evaluation process that weighs the importance of the research against the discomfort caused to the animals. It is easier for me to justify using laboratory animals than it is to justify my continued consumption of meat: meat is replaceable, laboratory animals are not (or at least not yet). 

Fortunately, there is increasing transparency about the use of laboratory animals and the processes involved. The public are now more informed about the trade-offs inherent in animal research and the dedication of researchers to seeking alternatives, reducing the use of laboratory animals and refining animal experiments. Compared to the other NCad members, my contribution will focus more on the refinement and transparency of animal research.”