Biotechnology

Animal biotechnology

Animal biotechnology is a huge field of study and includes the following topics: use of animals in research clones transgenic animals and gene pharming animal health Along with the scientific study, researchers must also deal with many tough scientific and ethical challenges. Animals play a vital role in primary research. The use of animal models permits more rapid assessment of the effects of new medical treatments and other products. Computer models and in vitro studies of cell cultures are often used as supplements to animal research, but they can't entirely duplicate the results in living organisms. Trials are required on cell cultures, in live animals, and on human subjects. Testing on live animal models requires that two or more species be used because different effects are observed in different animals. If problems are detected in the animal tests, human subjects are never recruited for trials. The animals used most often are pure-bred mice and rats, but other species are also used. Another extremely valuable research animal is the zebrafish, a hardy aquarium fish. Dogs are used for the study of cancer, heart disease and lung disorders. HIV and AIDS research is conducted on monkeys and chimpanzees. Animal research is very heavily regulated. The Animal Welfare Act sets standards concerning the housing, feeding, cleanliness and medical care of research animals.