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

“Biomedical research unravels mechanisms 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 laboratory animals, animal testing remains necessary for the advancement of medical science and human and animal health. Animal testing should only be performed if there are no alternatives and there is a careful evaluation process that weighs the importance of the research against the discomfort of the animals. It is easier for me to justify using laboratory animals than it is 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. This involves the public in the trade-offs inherent in animal testing and the dedication of researchers in seeking alternatives, reducing the use of laboratory animals and refining animal testing. Relative to that of other NCad members, my contribution will focus more on the refinement and transparency of animal testing.”