Rodent Welfare in Biomedical Research

Catalog description

Investigations of disease and therapeutics continue to necessitate modeling in comparative animal species to advance scientific knowledge for animals and humans alike. Rodents, particularly mice and rats, are the predominant species in which preliminary assessments are made, and as such, their welfare throughout experimental phases is a priority. It is necessary to balance regulatory requirements for working with animals against scientific objectives, while considering the experience of animals with respect to environmental impacts, behavior, clinical health, diagnostic interventions and humane endpoints. This course will review aspects of oversight of research rodent species and apply aspects of the 3 Realms and federal regulations (the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals) in consideration of sustainable and refined animal welfare. The overarching welfare goal for rodents used in biomedical research is to improve their functioning, feelings and natural behaviors in ways that promise to bolster data outcomes and advance translational applications. Prerequisites: Open to any student accepted for enrollment in the Animal Welfare Master's program; preference for those with a research background or interest.