Early Euthanasia vs. Rapid Results in Animal Experiments
Case for discussion about the use of animals in research.
A researcher has discovered a variant of a protein that appears to influence a gene leading to the development of breast cancer. The researcher is trying to understand how this happens.
Mice are used in this research, because they are suitable as models for the processes that occur in humans. A specially bred mouse carrying the relevant gene has been developed for this purpose. It has taken several years to develop this mouse strain, and many mice have died along the way.
Each animal experiment in the project has been approved by the Norwegian Food Safety Authority. At the same time, the authority encourages consideration of alternatives to animal models. The research project has reached a stage that requires the use of many animals. Tiny variations must be made each time to determine what affects the protein. The mice that become ill quickly have a short life. Other mice develop mild symptoms but unexpected and painful side effects. The researchers must decide how far the experiments should go before the mice are euthanized. By pushing this limit, they may obtain results more quickly and perhaps also achieve an international breakthrough.
Questions for discussion
- What should the researchers consider at this stage of the research?
- Do the researchers need to reflect further, once they have received approval from the Food Safety Authority?
- How should the researchers approach the dilemma of early euthanasia vs. rapid results?
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(Based on text by Lise Ekern, updated by FEK 2025).