Teunis M, Burchart-Lodewijks HDV, Laake JV, Hendriksen C. An international course on alternatives to animal use [abstract]. ALTEX. 2005;22(Special Issue):31


Abstract

With the intensifying demand for suitable replacements for animal experiments in the laboratory, the need for qualified technical and scientific personnel is steadily growing. Furthermore, it will become increasingly important to have specialised technicians to develop better and simpler models than animals for addressing fundamental scientific questions. In order to address this need we are developing a course on alternatives to animal use in life sciences research. EU and USA students engaged in bachelor-level education in life sciences can participate in this course.

The up to date program of this 6 month course includes many aspects of reduction, replacement and refinement. During the course, students will get acquainted with theoretical and practical aspects of physiology of the laboratory animal and with various Three Rs research areas such as: Risk assessment in toxicology and vaccine testing; humane endpoints; telemetry; databases, bioinformatics and computer modeling; animal welfare and housing; law issues; validation; genomics and proteomics; surgery and the use of models and simulators; cell culture models, and alternatives in education.

One important feature of the course will be the project Mission Alternative. Throughout the course participants will work together with institutions or industry to solve an existing problem or answer a scientific question, regarding alternatives to animal use. Currently, we are attracting lecturers from abroad to enhance the international character of the course. To facilitate participation for international students this course will be developed in close collaboration with the international office of our university and foreign contacts.
 





Link to journal: ALTEX - Alternatives to Animal Experimentation