GL-science

Primates are ideal models because they have even greater homology than mice and they are extremely similar to humans in terms of their genetics, anatomical features and behavioural characteristics. But because primates are very much like humans, use of primates in research is fraught with ethical and moral considerations, thus any research conducted on primates has strict regulations which need to be adhered. In addition the cost associated with primate research is high, due to the special facilities required to handle primates. Because of cost issues researchers seldom use large sample sizes, which can also affect validity of the results, but they still feature in research because of the advantages associated with their use (Wekerle et al, 2006). Read the rest of this entry »

The use of animal models in research has benefited the area of science greatly; they have allowed us to generate cures and treatments for many diseases, in addition to helping us understand the genetic and physiological effects of harmful stimuli. However there is still an ongoing debate as to whether using animal models in research actually yields valuable results (Pound et al, 2004). Read the rest of this entry »