Few
scientific issues have the power to
fire up emotions like the topic of
animal research. In this special,
Nature explores the views
of researchers and looks at the future
of animal studies. As part of our
investigation, we conducted an anonymous
survey of more than 1,000 readers
to find out what biomedical scientists
really think about animal research.
Grey
Matters Many
scientists have nuanced views on animal research.
But they are rarely heard, says Emma Marris.
13 December 2006
Caught
in the middle Researchers
aren't the only ones who concern themselves
with animal welfare in the lab. Vets are asked
regularly to monitor and care for these animals
- a role that can call for some difficult
decisions. Kerri Smith talks to Sarah Wolfensohn,
head of veterinary services at the University
of Oxford, UK, about the challenges and conflicts
presented by caring for experimental animals. 13 December 2006
Primates
in the frame Primate
researchers have long faced violent protests
over their work. But in some countries, regulatory
obstacles are taking a greater toll. David
Cyranoski meets European scientists who feel
that bureaucratic pressures are closing their
labs. 13
December 2006
Mighty
mouse Coordination
and integration of the results of animal research
are an ever-increasing challenge. Jane Qiu
finds out what happens when big biology meets
a small rodent.
EDITORIAL An
open debate Researchers who work with animals should join
the discussion on animal experimentation. 13
December 2006
WHAT
DO YOU THINK? Are animals
necessary for all the research they are used
in? Do universities give researchers enough
- and the right kind of - support? Read and
write comments in our newsblog. 13 December 2006
