New approach methodologies
By B. Allen
Approximately 110 million animals die in U.S. laboratories due to animal testing. In fact, the
United States has one of the highest global rates of animal testing, even though researchers have
shown that using animals as test subjects for human cosmetics or healthcare can be insufficient
and can cost $2 million per study. Thanks to continued research, alternative methods are being
put in effect, and they are more ethical, more accurate, and more cost effective. Below are the
three general categories for the New Approach Methodologies (NAM’s).
● In chemico: These are experiments performed on biological molecules outside of cells,
such as proteins or DNA. These can be used to study the interaction of molecules with
other molecules or drugs.
● In silico: These experiments are performed using computing platforms or hardware to
create mathematical models and simulations. This category also uses machine learning
and other computational techniques to create complex simulated models as opposed to
animals.
● In vitro: These experiments are performed on cells outside of the body, which includes
different types of cells, organoids, and tissue culture techniques. Examples of this method
are: culturing cells in a lab to screen a large number of chemical compounds, using
microphysiological systems (organs-on-chips) to mimic tissues or organs, and utilizing
mini-organs (organoids) that are derived from stem cells to replicate the functions of a
human organ.
Based on the options above, ending animal testing is possible if we fund the right research to
ensure more accurate and more ethical testing than performing them on live test subjects.
Scientists are increasingly moving towards NAM’s, though animal testing is still in effect at
many labs across the country. Advocates and researchers alike must continue to work towards
reducing animal testing until it is eradicated completely.
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