Experimentação animal: uma abordagem sobre relevância e crueldade

Abstract

The use of animals in research has enabled significant advances for science and benefits for society. We can highlight the discovery and cure of diseases, testing and production of medicines, among other purposes. Currently, rodents are the most used group of animals in scientific studies, especially the species Rattus norvegicus (rats) and Mus musculus (mice). There are several lineages of these species, each with well-defined characteristics. The choice of the best animal model varies according to the type of study and the researcher's objective. However, it is necessary to pay attention to the welfare of the animals, ensure that they are kept in good conditions of hygiene and health, minimizing states of cruelty or suffering. In order to guarantee this purpose, several laws were created, in particular Law 11,794/2008 (Arouca Law), which establishes the criteria and procedures for the use of animals in scientific research and teaching. It is not just any research that can or should use animals, and it is necessary tohave the approval of an ethics committee. There are alternative methods that do not use living organisms and are indicated to replace the use of animals unnecessarily, but there are always limitations. From an ethical point of view, experimentation is not justifiable, since we are enjoying products that originate from the death and suffering of thousands of animals. The use of animals in experiments cannot yet be abandoned, however, this use has been increasingly restricted.