Every year, millions of people benefit from medicines developed and tested in animals.
Despite good progress in non-animal alternatives over recent years, animal research remains essential to drug discovery and development. Animal models of disease are used to test the efficacy of new medicines during the early discovery phase, and animals are used to assess the safety of new medicines at a later stage before testing in human clinical trials.
Vivonics conducts animal research on behalf of customers who develop new therapeutics for humans.
Our work is conducted per the UK Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 under an authorised project licence. The welfare of the animals is of the utmost importance to Vivonics and central to good quality robust science. Animals are treated with care and compassion, and we are committed to the continual application of the principles of the 3Rs (replacement, reduction, and refinement) during our research.
Replacement:
Before embarking on a study, we check that animals are needed to achieve the scientific objective of our customers. Where non-animal alternatives exist (e.g. in silico or in vitro assays), we can advise on assay methods and potential suppliers.
Reduction:
We involve our statistical partner throughout the process to ensure animal studies are appropriately designed using the minimum number of animals possible and analysed to yield precise, interpretable data that will be valuable to our customers.
Refinement:
At Vivonics, we strive to use the most refined in vivo methods to enhance the welfare of the animals in our care and improve the quality of our data. We follow the Code of Practice for the Housing and Care of Animals used in Scientific Procedures but aim for even higher standards. We group-house animals in telemetry studies, use large double-decker cages and provide regular access to even larger socialisation and play cages. The most refined dosing and sampling techniques are also employed to minimise animal discomfort.
Our trained animal technicians keep up to date with advances in animal science through organisations such as the UK NC3Rs and implement new practices that positively impact animal welfare. They are also encouraged to improve our procedures and keep animal welfare a top priority.