From Vernon Barber
Gary Francione’s article about the relationship between human beings and animals contains the comment that “there is considerable evidence that reliance on animal models in experiments or drug testing may even be counterproductive” (4 June, p 51).
I do not believe there is “considerable evidence” of this. It is true that using animal models in research has limits, and it is also true that testing new drugs on animals does not completely guarantee their safety. After all, despite extensive human clinical trials on new drugs they sometimes have to be withdrawn because of unexpected deleterious side effects.
The use of animals is just one part of research and testing, but it is still an important part. As was stated in the conclusion of the recent authoritative report by a UK House of Lords Select Committee on animals in scientific procedures (2002), “There is at present a continued need for animal experiments both in applied research and in research aimed purely at extending knowledge,” and, “Toxicological testing in animals is at present essential for medical practice and the protection of consumers and the environment, as it often provides information that is not currently available from any other source.” If satisfactory non-animal methods are eventually developed that may not be the case, but nothing seems likely to change for the foreseeable future.
Essex, UK
