In this episode of PRIM&R’s podcast, “Research Ethics Reimagined,” we explore the critical role of research with nonhuman animals in scientific and medical advances. Our guest is Allyson Bennett, PhD, Professor and Chair of the Department of Psychology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.  (Transcript)

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Discussion Questions 

The Importance and Visibility of Research with Nonhuman Animals 

1. Bennett discusses how major medical advances were only made possible through research with nonhuman animals. Why do you think this information is not widely known or understood by the general public? 
2. How might labeling medicines and medical devices to indicate involvement of non-human animals in their development impact public perception and decision-making? 

Communicating About Research with Nonhuman Animals 

1. Bennett suggests when discussing research with nonhuman animals, we should focus on broad concepts rather than technical details. How can researchers and ethics professionals effectively communicate about this research without getting bogged down in jargon? 
2. What strategies can institutions employ to support researchers who face public scrutiny or attacks due to their work with nonhuman animals? How can organizations like PRIM&R assist in this effort? 

Ethical Considerations in Research with Humans and Other Animals 

1. Bennett points out that a core principle in research with both humans and other animals is maximizing benefits while minimizing harms. What are some key similarities and differences in the ethical frameworks for these two types of research? 
2. How do you think we should approach the “absolutist position” that argues against any use of nonhuman animals in research, regardless of potential benefits? What might be the ramifications of such a stance? 

Key Terms 

• IACUC: Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee, a committee that oversees an organization’s nonhuman animal program, facilities, and research. 

• IRB: Institutional Review Board, a committee that reviews and monitors research involving human participants. 

• 3Rs: Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement – guiding principles for more ethical use of nonhuman animals in testing. 

• Xenotransplantation: The process of transplanting organs or tissues between different species. 

• Pharmacotherapy: The treatment of disease through the administration of drugs. 

Additional Resources 

• Americans for Medical Progress – Organization providing information about the role of research with nonhuman animals in medical advances. 

• National Institutes of Health Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare – Provides guidance and interpretation of the Public Health Service Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals. 

• PRIM&R’s Research Ethics Timeline – A resource for exploring the milestones of research with humans and other animals. 

• Speaking of Research – Provides accurate information about the importance of research with nonhuman animals in medical and scientific progress.