Animal research in the Netherlands and within TNU
In the Donders Institute both fundamental and (bio-)medical research is performed. At present, not all research questions can be answered by laboratory research or research with human volunteers. Therefore, research is also conducted with animals.
Animal research (still) indispensable for many research fields
Animal experiments are still an indispensable part of much biological, medical and veterinary research. They help us to develop knowledge about how humans and animals function, and to learn more about how certain diseases arise and how they can be treated or cured.
Laboratory animal research is necessary for:
- Obtaining fundamental knowledge of biological processes that can be translated to humans and further investigated in humans.
- Obtaining knowledge about the cause of diseases.
- Developing new treatments and determining their effects.
- Developing vaccines and other methods of preventing disease.
At the Donders Institute we incorporate the regulations for responsible animal research into our daily practices, as formulated by Radboudumc and Radboud University.
Transparency agreement
The TNU strives for openness in animal research. In June 2021, Radboud University and Radboudumc have signed the transparency agreement where signatories commit to be open and transparent about using animals in research.
To celebrate this and to show the TNU facilities, in May 2022 an open day was organised. Besides a tour through the facilities, TNU researchers explained developments in animal research and why alternatives are not always an option.