Animal Ethics
Human civilizations have evolved over centuries from the time when philosophers like Descartes considered that non-humans were insentient “machines”. However, nonhuman living animals do perceive pain and have emotions. As alternative models are still inadequate, animal experiments remain prevalent in biomedical and medical research to advance human healthcare.
🔬 Biomedical Domains Using Animal Experiments
- Foundational biomedical research
- Developing treatments for diseases like AIDS, Alzheimer’s
- Harvesting antibodies, vaccines, hormones
- Preliminary drug/pollution safety testing
- Understanding genetic diseases
- Designing diagnostics
- Teaching and training
🧑🔬 Responsibilities of Scientists & Investigators
- Ensure proper housing and comfort of animals
- Avoid inhumane procedures, minimize pain and distress
- Use animals only when alternatives are not available
- Select healthy animals from approved genetic stock
🧬 5-R Minimization Strategy
- Replacement
- Reduction
- Refinement
- Rehabilitation
- Responsibility
🔖 External Nominees (IAEC)
- Dr. R. Vadivelan – JSS College of Pharmacy, Ooty ✉️ rv_sofia@rediffmail.com
- Dr. M. Malarmathi – TANUVAS, Namakkal ✉️ murasumalarmathi@gmail.com
- Dr. Abdul Rahman A. – ESI Medical College & Hospital ✉️ drabdulrahman7576@gmail.com
- S. Muthu Krishnan – Sri Ramakrishna Paramedical Sciences ✉️ muthukrishnan.indian@gmail.com
👥 Internal Members (IAEC)
- Dr. M. Geethanjali – Chairperson, Biological Scientist
- Dr. L. Madhan – Member Secretary
- Dr. K. Prince – Veterinarian
- Mr. M. Srinivasan – Biological Scientist
- Dr. P. Hema – In-Charge of Animal House