69383 5.0 03/27/06 12:45 PM Page 1 ANIMAL ACTION Winter … · 2017-02-17 · the scientific case against animal experi-mentation, with many unfamiliar terms and concepts, can be

Winter 2006ANIMAL ACTIONREPORT

Visit our web site:www.navs.org

Advancing science without harming animals

A publication of the National Anti-Vivisection Society

t’s a challenge to keep from beingfrustrated when every day we areconfronted with the knowledge that

millions of animals continue to suffer inlaboratories as research subjects—evenwhile it is increasingly acknowledged thatanimal-based research is a hopelessly flawedmethod of investigation. To think about thepain, fear, and distress each animal is forcedto endure, and then multiply it by the millions can be overwhelming.

As animal advocates, we believe that the lifeof every single one of these animals matters,and that their suffering is unacceptable. Weknow that there is a better way to conductscientific research than to confine animals ina laboratory setting, isolate them from othersof their own kind, and manipulate their bod-ies in an attempt to mimic human disease.

Confronted with this systematic exploitationof innocent creatures, many animal advocatesrefuse to purchase products that have been

tested on animals. Some take a public standin protest outside research facilities. Still oth-ers write their congressional representativesand letters to the editor of their local news-papers. All these actions—and many more—are shining a light on the flawed and out-moded practice of animal experimentation.Every day, more people from all walks of lifeare beginning to ask the question, “Why?”

As the debate over animal experimentationheats up, NAVS is committed to promotingthe concept of better, more humane sciencethrough the elimination of animal experi-mentation. We do this in a variety of ways,and in this issue of the Animal Action Report,we’re highlighting some of them. Theseinclude our efforts to work with the scientificcommunity in developing, validating andimplementing alternatives to animal teststhrough our support of the InternationalFoundation for Ethical Research. You’ll alsoread about our ongoing efforts in reachingout to the next generation of scientiststhrough our participation in high school science fairs and conferences. And Dr. RayGreek, a NAVS Science Advisor, shares theperspective of the young scientists he meetsin his travels. For an historical perspective onthe issue, Dr. June Bradlaw, another NAVSScience Advisor and Chairperson of theScientific Advisory Board of the InternationalFoundation for Ethical Research, talks aboutthe difficulties of challenging the status quoof using animals in toxicity testing.

As you will see, NAVS is investing the timeand resources to make science better andmore humane. Thanks to your support, weare making progress, and you can be restassured that we are carrying on the struggleto eliminate animal experimentation, with aheightened sense of urgency, knowing thatprogress can never come quickly enough.So, with all of our generous supporters atour side, we will continue to “walk thewalk.” In the meantime, we hope you findthis edition of the Animal Action Reportboth informative and illuminating.

In thi s i s sue . . .

From Vision to Reality Making the dream of a better, more humane science come true.

I

NAVS works wih the scientific community to developand implement alternatives to animal tests.

New Adventures in Cyberspace NAVS launches improved and expanded website at www.navs.org 2

Encouraging a New Generation of Innovative Scientists NAVS expands efforts to reach students with the concept of humane science. 4

Investing in the FutureIFER’s support of the development of alternatives will bring huge returns in better, more humane science. 6

Profile of an Ethical Scientist Dr. June Bradlaw: Champion for Better, More Humane Science 9

Now That’s the Cat’s Meow! NAVS Sanctuary Fund helps Cedarhill Animal Sanctuary take in feline victims of Katrina. 12

An “A” in Compassion New Jersey becomes ninth state to enact a student choice law. 14

Ohio State University closes its chimpanzee research center.Resident chimpanzees will find a new home at Primarily Primates. 16

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2 A N I M A L A C T I O N R E P O R T

e are fortunate to live in timeswhen technology can be har-nessed so effectively for the

greater good. Today, the Internet gives usthe power to create an on-line communityfor better, speedier communications,improved cost-effectiveness…and, mostimportantly, greater power to advocate for animals.

That’s why the recent launch of our newwebsite—www.navs.org—is such a notableevent. If you have visited our website inrecent weeks, you no doubt have noticedthat we have improved it to better serveyou, the animals, students, the general public and scientists more effectively. Now,we have more information, easier naviga-tion than ever before, and exciting newways that help you advocate for animals. It’s all about action, action, action for ani-mals—with just the click of your mouse!

Keeping up with your support of NAVS iseasier than ever too—because you can dothat through the website. You can joinNAVS, renew your membership, make adonation, participate in our monthly givingprogram, or make a donation in memory ofa loved one or as a tribute to an animal orperson—just by going to the Support Ussection.

Educate yourself on the issue…at your own pace.While the general content of our websiteremains the same, we’ve organized thematerial to make it easier for you to learn asmuch about a particular topic as you want.As before, we concentrate on animals inproduct testing, education and research, buteach section has been expanded with moreinformation.

In fact, the Animals in Scientific Researchsection now contains the best, most author-itative information on the web as to whyanimals should not be used in research.

Of course, we know that a discussion of the scientific case against animal experi-mentation, with many unfamiliar terms and concepts, can be daunting for manyreaders. That’s why we’ve designed theAnimals in Scientific Research section in away that lets you delve into the subject asmuch or as little as you want. It starts outwith a very basic discussion, but just click onthe highlighted words and phrases and you’llarrive at a more in-depth discussion. Thenclick again if you want to go even deeper.

Get in on the action…for animals!One of the most exciting new features ofour new website is the Advocacy Center.This is where you can make a difference for animals with just the click of a mouse.The Advocacy Center shows all the “hot”issues that call for your attention, and it’sconstantly being updated with news you’llwant to act on.

Best of all, it’s easier than ever to takeaction. No longer will you have to take thetime to compose a letter—we’ve done it foryou! For each issue, we’ve composed thecore of an e-letter addressed to your congressional representative, with the

New Adventures in Cyberspace NAVS launches improved and expanded website at www.navs.org

W Welcome to the

home page of

www.navs.org –

your destination

for the most

comprehensive

information on

vivisection on

the Internet!

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option for you to add a personal message.(By adding your own message, you’ll bepersonalizing the letter, and thus increasingthe chances that it will be noted.) Then justclick on “send” and the letter goes directlyto your elected officials.

Not only that, when you take action bywriting a letter, you will be prompted to tella friend. We encourage you to take advan-tage of the opportunity to urge your friendsand associates to take action as well.

Because this is such a fast, easy and conven-ient way for animal advocates to voice theiropinion, think of how many more peoplewill write to their congressional representa-tives…and how much more powerful ourmessage for animals will be!

Also, don’t forget to check in on the AdvocacyCenter frequently, because we’re always addingnew animal issues that need your attention.

Be part of the in-crowd withour Supporters Only section.

Our newly revamped website is packedwith new features and interactive opportu-nities—and we’re not even done yet! Soonto come is our Supporters Only section,which will be available only to active NAVSsupporters. In this section, you’ll find moreinformation and articles, as well as past andcurrent issues of the Animal Action Report.

It’s all there for you, and for the animals. So please visit us soon at www.navs.org. See you in cyberspace!

3W I N T E R 2 0 0 6

y registering on the NAVS website,you’ll be joining one of the mostactive and influential on-line com-

munities of animal advocates anywhere.And it’s so easy, too, right from our homepage. All you have to do is provide us withyour name, e-mail address, city, state andzip, and your specific areas of interest. Once you register, the site welcomes youback whenever you visit, and you can evencustomize the information you want toreceive from us. You can get e-blasts just onproduct testing, just on education, just onresearch—or on all areas.

In the months to come, we will also have theability to customize the NAVS homepage toreflect your interests based on the informationthat you’ve given us. So, if you are really inter-ested in product testing and you let us know

that in your registration profile, the NAVShomepage will be all about product testing(and updated regularly) whenever you visit.

Why is registering on our website so impor-tant? First and foremost, it allows us tosend you e-blasts on a moment’s notice,which allows you to take action faster andmake sure your voice is heard. Additionally,sending e-blasts helps us save the costs ofprinting and mailing, which frees up fundsto use for helping animals more directly.

And don’t worry about your e-mail addressfalling into the wrong hands. NAVS doesnot sell or exchange e-mail addresses. Soyour e-mail address is completely safe andconfidential with us.

Even if you don’t register on the website, westill need your e-mail address. This allows

NAVS to communicate with you faster andmore cost-effectively. With such little timeto react to the many issues that come upinvolving animal experimentation, it’s critically important that we have a way toinstantly get information out to you, so youcan act in a timely manner. Obviously, e-mailing is the best way possible.

So please, please give us your e-mailaddress, either by registering on-line atwww.navs.org, or by providing it to us onthe donor form. Or if you prefer, you cancall us at 800-888-NAVS. However you doit, please don’t delay. Make the connectiontoday—by giving us your e-mail address.

B

Join our on-line communityof animal advocates! Register on our website today.

The Advocacy Center shows all the “hot” issues that

call for your attention.

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4 A N I M A L A C T I O N R E P O R T

Encouraging a New Generation ofInnovative Scientists NAVS expands efforts to reach students with the concept of humane science.

ere at NAVS, we are alwayslooking to the future for hopethat we will see a time when

no animals are exploited in the name of science. That hope, we believe, is in thenext generation of scientists. The science-minded students of today will be theresearchers of tomorrow, and it is vitallyimportant that we reach them with ourmessage that there is a better way to advancescientific knowledge than by using animals.

That’s why we are spending time andresources to sponsor Humane Scienceawards at high school science fairs…andthis effort is paying real dividends. By participating as a sponsor in major sciencefairs, NAVS has sparked the attention ofstudents and administrators alike. Now, students who have only heard the messagefrom their local mentors and sponsors thatanimal research is a necessary step in theprocess of conducting biomedical researchare seeing for themselves that better, morehumane ways to conduct science are beingacknowledged and rewarded.

Through our humane science awards at science fairs, NAVS has a chance to clearlydemonstrate our commitment to encourag-ing and supporting the participation of students in science fairs whose projectsinvolve using methodologies that do notrely on the animal model. Gaining such visibility at these events is a highly effectiveway to reach some of the most gifted students, their mentors, and other membersof the scientific community.

Why are science fairs so important? Theinstitution of science fairs serves as a way ofputting students in touch with scientists,

data and equipment that may not otherwisebe available to them in their school sciencelabs. And it allows the scientific communityto tap into the finest young scientific mindsthrough mentoring programs, recruitment,and prizes offered at local and regionalcompetitions. For us, it allows us to reachthe next generation of scientists at a criticaltime in their careers.

As our long-time supporters are well aware,NAVS has been monitoring the use of animals in science fairs for more than adecade. However, until 2001, our participa-tion was limited to attending the IntelInternational Science and Engineering Fair(Intel ISEF) on public days and reporting onthe number of invasive animal experimentsexhibited that year. Our efforts to meet withorganizers of Intel ISEF were ignored andour message was falling on deaf ears.

After initiating a shareholders’ resolutionwith the Intel Corporation to change therules of the science fair competition to prohibit giving prizes to projects thatcaused harm to animals, NAVS successfullynegotiated a unique intervention thatallowed NAVS to participate in the sciencefair process through the NAVS HumaneScience awards.

Since the establishment of the Intel ISEFHumane Science Award, NAVS has gainedcredibility as a resource for non-animalbased research among students, and hasbeen recognized as a partner in promotingscience education by groups such as theAmerican Academy for the Advancement ofSciences, the American MathematicalSociety and the Institute of Electrical andElectronics Engineers Foundation. TheHumane Science Award is sought after by

H

Above, one of the winners of the 2005 NAVS Humane Science Award at the Intel ISEF, Jeff Silpe discusses hisproject, “Evaluation of MMP and TIMP Expression in Pediatric Brain Tumors,” with a fellow participant.

Below right, is Jijun Chow, another winner of the 2005 NAVS Humane Science Award at the Intel ISEF, with herproject, “Use of Homology Modeling and Molecular Docking to Map Retinoid Binding Sites on Protein Kinase C.”

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students and has gained the attention andrespect of organizations that have histori-cally promoted animal research.

This year, NAVS is stepping up its effortsto impact the way students view scienceand the methodologies used in creating andexecuting a science fair project. For the firsttime, NAVS is participating as a sponsor ofthe American Junior Academy of Sciencesconference in St. Louis, Missouri, whichbrings together high school students whoexcelled at their local and state science fairsfor an opportunity to meet their peers andlearn from experts in many areas of science.

This conference is not a typical science fair,with project displays and awards at the end.Instead, it is a coming together of futurescientists, giving them an opportunity towork together with other students in aseries of scientific programs and events thatwill help shape their futures. The JuniorAcademy of Sciences operates independent-ly in many states, and winners may benominated to participate in the AmericanJunior Academy of Sciences conference.

NAVS will have the opportunity to reachout to another elite group of young scientists by sponsoring a Humane Scienceaward at this year’s conference of the IllinoisJunior Academy of Sciences, which will beheld in May at the University of Illinois atChampaign/Urbana. We look forward toannouncing the winner of the award in afuture issue of the Animal Action Report.

A VIEW TO THE FUTUREWhat the scientists of tomorrow are saying aboutanimal research today.

Dr. Ray Greek, NAVS Science Advisor

In my travels on behalf of AFMA(Americans For Medical Advancement)and NAVS, I frequently have theopportunity to speak with students who are studying for advanced degrees in the medical sciences. It is gratifying to see that for many of these students, the idea of using animals in research anddrug development does not even cross their minds. These young scientists, withlong and fruitful careers ahead of them, understand fully the futility of using ananimal to make a reliable prediction for a human. Furthermore, they are keenlyaware of the myriad of non-animal research modalities that accurately predicthuman response.

Recently, I had the opportunity to attend a high school science fair, and the proj-ects I saw were truly impressive. This was an event where high school studentswere using DNA from humans to determine if a particular gene was involved incancer. Others were using computers to enable people suffering from paralysis tomove objects. And I’m talking about 10th and 11th graders! These are the youngpeople who will be the top scientists of tomorrow.

I recall one scientific conference attended by researchers, pharmaceutical com-panies, and biotech entrepreneurs, where most of the exhibits and lecturesfocused on personalized medicine—the ability of your doctor to someday takeyour genetic profile and predict what diseases you will be susceptible to as wellas which treatments will work best for you. When I brought up the idea of usinganimals as predictive models to the exhibitors and speakers, they simplylaughed! One individual said it best when he remarked, “The paradigm of usinganimals has died but has not yet been buried.”

Entrepreneurs who are developing and marketing cutting edge health care prod-ucts and equipment agree. And venture capitalists I’ve spoken to say that theyroutinely reject proposals for products and procedures based on animal data.

The type of research that NAVS funds and rewards is the kind of research thatthese experts—young, dynamic individuals who are just beginning to make theirmark on their chosen field—recognize as the vision for tomorrow.

While NAVS has a very small amount of money each year to give to studentsand scientists when compared to the vast funds of the National Institutes forHealth, we know that those projects supported by NAVS are the kind that willchange the world for the better. Like a small rock tossed into a pond, researchsupported by NAVS and students rewarded for projects that don’t use animalswill have a tremendous ripple effect throughout the scientific community. Andjust as the ripple expands across the entire pond, there will come a day whenthe vision for tomorrow will become a reality.

For more on the scientifically reliable non-animal research methods availabletoday, see What Will We Use If We Don’t Use Animals? by Greek and Greek.

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6 A N I M A L A C T I O N R E P O R T

Investing in the Future IFER’s support of the development of alternatives will bring huge returns in better, more humane science.

hose of us who work for bettertreatment of animals are oftenasked, “Where is the progress?

Are things getting better for animals?”

Unfortunately, it is extremely difficult tomeasure progress in the sheer numbers ofanimals currently being used, since, underthe current provisions of the AnimalWelfare Act, scientists are not required tocount rodents, the most commonly usedspecies in research.

While we cannot necessarily quantifyprogress in these numbers, we can point toother numbers that are encouraging.

Consider that a decade ago, most scientistshardly ever addressed the ethics of usinganimals in research, believing that animalswere incapable of suffering because theywere not “self-aware.” Today, however, theethics involving animal research is a fre-quent topic of articles in scientific journals.

Anti-vivisectionists were once dismissed as“anti-science” and misguided zealots whocared more about animals than people.Today, there are more animal advocacyorganizations than ever before, as well asincreasing numbers of people who supportthem. What’s more, animal issues arereceiving greater visibility in the media.

Perhaps the most significant beacon ofprogress has been the development andimplementation of non-animal alternatives.In 1985—four years before James B.Wyngaarden, the former director of theNational Institutes of Health, was quoted assaying that “research should not be ham-pered by moral considerations”—NAVStook the extraordinary step of joining with

some remarkable scientists from academia,industry and government to initiate a revo-lutionary solution to end the use of animalsin science and education.

Frustrated with the inadequacies of animalmodels as a scientific methodology andbuilding on the compelling ethical objec-

tions to exploiting animals, these leadershad the foresight to establish theInternational Foundation for EthicalResearch (IFER) based on a simple premise:there had to be a better way.

Building on what had been a little recognized book, Principles of Humane

T

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Experimental Technique, published in 1959by two British scientists, William Russelland Rex Burch, NAVS found the commonlanguage that facilitated communicationbetween scientists and animal advocates.IFER adopted what has become known asthe 3 R’s approach – Replacement of ani-mals as a model with a scientifically validsubstitute for current live animal method-ologies, Reduction in the number of animalsused while enhancing the yield of informa-tion, and Refinement of the experimentalprocedures to improve the optimal well-being of animals used in research.

IFER has set the replacement of animal useas its area of priority and from its begin-nings in 1985 incorporated a 4th R to itsmission – Responsibility. This 4th R is whathas distinguished IFER from other fundingand advocacy groups concerned with alter-natives. Responsibility has meant the re-evaluation of the course science is takingwith animal models; the recognition ofsociety’s heightened awareness of the use ofanimals in research, product testing andeducation; the development of newmethodologies; the implementation of new technologies; and the furthering ofpersonal accountability.

Thanks in large part to the generous sup-port of NAVS, the investment in promot-ing scientifically viable alternatives to theuse of animals has contributed to impor-tant progress. In the two decades since itsfounding, IFER has provided critical finan-cial support for the development, validationand implementation of alternatives andsponsored conferences to disseminate infor-mation on these scientific innovations.

The grants that IFER has provided to sci-entists have funded a wide array of scientif-ic advancements and dramatically reducedand/or replaced the use of animals. In justover 20 years, an important milestone hasbeen reached—IFER has invested over onemillion dollars in this endeavor. To ensurethat grant monies are put to the best possi-ble use, IFER has assembled a distinguishedgroup of dedicated scientists to serve on itsScientific Advisory Board.

Grants have been used to make advance-ments in in vitro toxicology that have helpedto replace the Draize eye and skin irritationtests. Replacing these tests has saved count-less rabbits and other animals from exposureto these painful practices. These advance-ments also laid the basis for the developmentof artificial skin that has been used as a successful treatment for burn victims.

IFER has also supported the developmentof computer technology to simulate kidneystructure and function for training medicalstudents, an in vitro project for studyingspinal cord injuries, and the creation of anartificial stomach for teaching suturingskills for surgeons. IFER contributed fundsto a study that demonstrated the impressiveperformance of graduate students usinginteractive videos instead of live animals ina lab and to the development of non-inva-sive methodologies to study wildlife.

IFER’s grant recipients have conductedresearch on numerous diseases from cancerto Leishmaniasis (a disfiguring diseasefound in tropical and subtropical areas ofthe world, which is especially devastating to children). In addition to funding

Continued on page 8

In addition to funding

development of these

alternatives, IFER has

sponsored numerous

conferences and

workshops to advance

awareness of these

scientific innovations

and to promote standard

best practices of new

methodologies for

validation by regulatory

agencies and implemen-

tation by the relevant

industries.

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8 A N I M A L A C T I O N R E P O R T

development of these alternatives, IFER hassponsored numerous conferences and work-shops to advance awareness of these scien-tific innovations and to promote standardbest practices of new methodologies for val-idation by regulatory agencies and imple-mentation by the relevant industries.

It is important to note, however, that whilethese achievements have demonstrated thatscientifically viable alternatives to the use ofanimals are possible, IFER’s ability to fundsuch projects is a readily acknowledged“drop in the bucket” compared with thefunding resources of government, universityand private research laboratories. TheNational Institutes of Health (NIH) budgetfor 2006, for example, is $28.6 billion. Forreasons such as this, while progress is beingmade, it is at a painfully slow pace.

In Europe, where the promotion of alterna-tive methods has been more successful thanin the U.S., the number of animals used inresearch actually rose by 2.1% from 2003to 2004, due primarily to the use of genetically engineered animals. Thankfully,the European Commission and industry associations agreed to reduce the number ofanimals used for research, toxicology andquality control of health products from 11 million a year to 9 million by 2007.

Additional hurdles such as getting govern-mental regulatory bodies to commit todeveloping and validating alternative meth-ods or even to agree to implement existingalternatives have made changes come at glacial speed. Another fundamental prob-lem has been determining the standardsthat alternatives have to meet to be validat-ed. This is a frustrating reality when thecurrently used animal tests have never beenvalidated and are known to be inadequatein predicting responses in humans.

To meet these challenges, IFER has recently proposed the addition of 3 A’s tobe considered along with Replacement,Reduction and Refinement. The 3 R’s haveaddressed the animal welfare concerns withvivisection. To better ensure that the development, validation and implementa-tion of alternatives contribute to theprogress of scientific endeavors, IFER hasproposed Accuracy, Accountability, and Advancement.

Building on its 4th R of Responsibility,IFER will advance alternatives that areaccurate in predicting human response andthat are useful for medical research anddrug testing, not that simply duplicate theresponses from animal tests. IFER will continue to work with NAVS and organizations like Americans For MedicalAdvancement (AFMA) to hold those whocontinue to defend the reliability of animalmodels accountable. And IFER will continue to support the innovations andtechnologies that advance science and willlead to cures for human health problems.

In the continuing debate between thosewho defend vivisection and those who pro-mote science without the use of animals,we have often been asked, “Who wouldyou save on a sinking ship – your child oryour dog?” IFER will continue to chal-lenge the establishment to stop throwingdogs and other animals overboard and startdeveloping real “life jackets” for people byadvancing better, more humane science.

IFER will continue to invest in the devel-opment and use of alternatives. To learnmore about how you, too, may contributeto this investment in the advancement ofscience that does not harm animals, pleasevisit our website at: www.ifer.org.

PLEASE DON’TLEAVE US BEHIND

WHEN YOU MOVE! Help us save on postage costs

by giving us your new address.

You may think that your AnimalAction Report will be forwarded toyou if you move, but that’s not thecase. It is returned to NAVS—at a costto us of almost 50 cents a piece,which includes only what the U.S.Post Office charges us, not to mentionthe waste of paper.

That may not seem like much, but wemay get thousands back whenever wemail out an issue, and the cost addsup fast.

So please help us save money that we can direct more effectively to the animals by letting us know yournew mailing address—by e-mail([email protected]), phone or snail mail. If you are already registered on ourwebsite, you can simply go towww.navs.org and update your profile.

Giving us your new address takesonly a moment, and we thank you inadvance for your help in this matter.

Investing in the Future Continued from page 7

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Profile of an Ethical Scientist Dr. June Bradlaw: Champion for Better, More Humane Science

ome recent articles in scientificjournals have referenced the factthat recent public opinion polls

show that the public’s view of scientistsreflect the typical stereotype of a “mad”scientist—brilliantly mad, cruel and out of touch with humanity. Not a flatteringportrait, to say the least. What’s more,some animal advocates have embellishedthe stereotype by portraying scientists asunethical, fraudulent and “torturers” ofinnocent animal victims.

In marked contrast to these nightmarishimages stands Dr. June Bradlaw, chairper-son of the Scientific Advisory Board of the International Foundation for EthicalResearch (IFER) and a Science Advisor tothe National Anti-Vivisection Society.

In 2001 Dr. June Bradlaw was awardedthe Lifetime Achievement Award by theSociety for In Vitro Biology as “…thehighest honor given by the Society to scientists who are considered pioneers orhighly influential researchers in the scienceand art of cell culture.”

In addition to being associated with IFERsince its founding, she has helped guideNAVS in presenting credible argumentsfor the advancement of alternatives andhas helped to judge students’ projects atinternational science fairs for NAVS’Humane Science Awards. Dr. Bradlaw hasalso served on advisory and review panelsfor the Interagency CoordinatingCommittee on the Validation ofAlternative Methods (ICCVAM).

Dr. Bradlaw recently shared some of thechallenges she confronted as one scientistwho dared to question the way things“have always been done.” She alsoexplains how she works with both animaladvocates and scientists.

Dr. Bradlaw, how did you first become involved inalternatives to using animals?In 1975 while working as a scientist at theFood and Drug Administration (FDA), Iproposed that the Division of Toxicologydevelop methods using human and animalcells cultured in vitro to study the toxicitiesof potentially hazardous substances.Originally it was planned as a supplementto the ongoing practice of animal toxicitytesting in vivo.

Initially, it was not my main intention tosave animals, but to develop better science

to help make more informed decisions oftoxic assessments.

What was your greatest challenge in presenting your program? In 1976, when I wrote an expanded proposal delineating how such a programcould be developed and conducted, a keycomponent included the training of per-sonnel in the art and science of cell culture.My challenge was to convince my directorsthat this was the wave of the future whenmost knew very little about cultured cellsor understood little of their potential use inall areas of toxicology other than geneticsand cancer research.

S

Continued on page 10

“My challenge

was to convince

my directors that

this was the wave

of the future . . .”

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10 A N I M A L A C T I O N R E P O R T

Can you explain for us whyanimal models have beenused in toxicology? Traditionally, the science of toxicology usedanimal models to assess the toxic effects ofunknown chemicals, drugs and food addi-tives to make regulatory decisions regardinghuman safety. The animal models carriedthe legal authority in regulatory decision-making because these methods were oftenpublished in the Federal Register to be usedas a checklist by the regulatory authorities.

What was the scientificrationale for using animals?Although most of these methods had notbeen validated by adhering to a strict proto-col, they were in general use by the toxicol-ogy research community, and the sheerweight of evidence provided the justifica-tion for their use in regulatory decisions. Itwas the best, if not perfect, method knownat that time. The traditional animal testshad protected the public in the past andengendered trust in their use. There was nourgency to change.

What has changed since yougot started 31 years ago?In the last three decades, there has been ashift in attitudes regarding the use of ani-mals in research. The shift was promptedby the many advances in the developmentof non-animal methods to include cellular,molecular, and mathematical and computermodel systems. Cell and tissue culturemethods provided the opportunity to studythe biological mechanisms by which achemical or drug acts in such a way thatwas never possible in animals. Many phar-maceutical companies and industrial firmshave adopted these new methods to acceptor reject further development of a productor entity.

Who has supported thedevelopment of non-animalalternatives?There have been a number of groups andorganizations that have supported thedevelopment and use of the new technology.Non-profit groups such as InternationalFoundation for Ethical Research (IFER)and the Center for Alternatives to AnimalTesting (CAAT) at Johns HopkinsUniversity were among the first to supportthe research efforts of scientific investigatorsand graduate students in the pursuit ofmore humane science.

Why is the validation of alternatives important?Although the concept of alternatives datesback to 1959 when William Russell andRex Burch of the Universities Federation ofAnimal Welfare suggested the “three R’s” –Reduction, Refinement and Replacement – asa means of reducing the animal sufferinginherent in many studies, only recently areregulators becoming more open to consid-ering alternative test methods. Their reasonsfor doing so include scientific reasons,lower costs or faster results than traditionalanimal tests, or animal welfare concerns.Implementation of the “three R’s” meansfacilitating the regulatory acceptance ofalternative methods. In reality, the methodwill not be used unless it is accepted by regulatory agencies as a replacement for atraditional animal test.

Who oversees this regulatoryprocess?In the USA, the Interagency CoordinatingCommittee on the Validation of AlternativeMethods (ICCVAM), made up of represen-tatives of 15 federal agencies, appoints panels of independent experts to review the available literature, including protocolssubmitted by companies, to assess the valid-ity of a test. Depending on its regulatorymandate, each agency then independentlydecides whether or not to accept the test.

Profile of anEthical ScientistContinued from page 9

“Cell and tissue

culture methods

provided the

opportunity to

study the biologi-

cal mechanisms by

which a chemical

or drug acts in

such a way that

was never possible

in animals.”

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How many alternative methods have been validatedand implemented?Since its inception in 1997, ICCVAM hasaccepted 16 alternative methods, six ofwhich have been adopted by regulatoryauthorities, whereas the others are undergo-ing improvements. ECVAM (EuropeanCenter for the Validation of AlternativeMethods), ICCVAM’s counterpart, has vali-dated 17 alternatives; nine more are in thelast stage of peer review; another 25 areundergoing final trials or analysis. By law,an alternative must be used in Europe onceit is validated, but in practice delays of sev-eral years are still common. As Europeanregulators become more accustomed to thenew methods, they are more apt to acceptthem. Fortunately, ICCVAM works closelywith ECVAM and can benefit from all thechallenges confronting a new process.

What is your pragmaticassessment of the near futureconcerning the developmentand implementation of alternatives to the use of animals?Scientific advancement over the years hasprovided the basic tools to develop methodswithout causing harm to an animal orhuman. It is not realistic to think that sci-ence will eliminate all animal experimenta-tion immediately, but the direction istoward a considerable reduction in animaluse. Alternatives can save billions of dollarsand cut years off testing schedules whileproviding more pertinent data. The newscience will not only protect the lives ofanimals, but humans will also be the ulti-mate beneficiary.

Why have you chosen to work with the National Anti-Vivisection Society and theInternational Foundation forEthical Research?When I retired from the federal govern-ment after more than 30 years as a researchscientist, I made a commitment to seeingthat progress in this area would continue.And I thought I could do more tackling itfrom a different perspective. The peopleassociated with these organizations, especially my colleagues from science, are so generous in sharing their time andexpertise – it creates real enthusiasm and a sense of accomplishment. I understandthat we have a long way to go before solving this problem, but I think we’ve laid a strong foundation on which we can continue to build real progress. Now I canuse my scientific expertise to help identifyinnovative developments in science and science education that will potentially spare millions of animals from being used as research subjects.

11W I N T E R 2 0 0 6

“I understand that

we have a long way

to go before solving

this problem, but I

think we’ve laid a

strong foundation

on which we can

continue to build

real progress.”

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12 A N I M A L A C T I O N R E P O R T

NOW THAT’STHE CAT’S MEOW

hey’re called the “Cajun Kitties,” and there are 43 of them—helplessvictims of the devastating power of Hurricane Katrina, who have found a safenew home at Cedarhill Sanctuary—in large part because of your generous

contributions to the NAVS Sanctuary Fund.

Cedarhill Animal Sanctuary, founded in 1990 in Caledonia, Mississippi, provides lifetimecare, maintenance and housing for abandoned, abused, homeless, and neglected exotic anddomestic felines. As you might expect, the staff at Cedarhill took quick action to rescue asmany cats as possible in the aftermath of Katrina. With your help through the NAVSSanctuary Fund, Cedarhill staff and volunteers began construction of a new 8,000 sq. ft.enclosure to house their aptly named “Cajun Kitties.”

And what an enclosure it is! One side of the enclosure shares a fence line with Phoebe the tiger, which promises to be a new and exciting experience for all the Cajun Kitties! The enclosure also includes an 8’ x 10’ heated storage building with pillow beds for thekitties’ comfort.

With services donated by Dr. Bushby and his students at the Mississippi State UniversitySchool of Veterinary Medicine, all the Cajun Kitties were neutered/spayed, tested for infec-tious disease and vaccinated. Then it was moving day—to the domestic compound wherethey will share one acre and four houses with the rest of Cedarhill’s permanent residents.

Thanks to you, our generous supporters, for this happy ending!

TNAVS Sanctuary

Fund helps

Cedarhill Animal

Sanctuary take

in feline victims

of Katrina.

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13W I N T E R 2 0 0 6 Printed on recycled paper.

The National Anti-Vivisection Society

Advancing science without harming animals

National Headquarters53 W. Jackson Blvd., Suite 1552

Chicago, IL 60604

Tel: 312-427-6065

800-888-NAVS(800-888-6287)

Fax: 312-427-6524Email: [email protected]

Visit us on the web: www.navs.org

The National Anti-Vivisection Society is a national,not-for-profit organization incorporated in the State of Illinois. Annual membership includes a year’s subscription to the Animal Action Report and a copyof Personal Care for People Who Care. Life Partner:$1,000; Life Benefactor: $500; Life Sponsor: $100;Individual Membership: $40; Senior Membership:$15: Student Membership: $15. All donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. Acopy of NAVS’ annual financial report is availableupon request.

Executive DirectorPeggy Cunniff

Director of Programs and CommunicationsClare Haggarty

Director of Legal/Legislative ProgramsMarcia Kramer

Manager of Financial OperationsKaren Ruane

Senior Program AssociateLaura Ell

Program AssociateJamie Aitchison

Administrative AssistantMichael Foley

Science AdvisorsDr. Ray Greek

Dr. June Bradlaw

THE NAVS MISSIONThe National Anti-Vivisection Society promotesgreater compassion, respect and justice for ani-mals through educational programs based onrespected ethical and scientific theory and sup-ported by extensive documentation of the crueltyand waste of vivisection. NAVS’ educational pro-grams are directed at increasing public awarenessabout vivisection, identifying humane solutions tohuman problems, developing alternatives to theuse of animals, and working with like-mindedindividuals to effect changes which help to end thesuffering of innocent animals.

© 2006 The National Anti-Vivisection Society. All rights reserved.This publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part inany form without prior written permission from the publisher.

Photo facing page, four of the Cajun Kitties line up for a photo op. Posing for the camera

are Odysseus, Romeo, Vamp and Sinatra.

This page, a couple of curious Cajun Kitties engage in a whisker-to-whisker encounter

with Phoebe the Tiger, their larger-than-life neighbor at Cedarhill Sanctuary. If the

Kitties are wondering what they’re feeding that cat to make her so big, perhaps Phoebe

wants to know just where those incredible shrinking tigers came from!

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14 A N I M A L A C T I O N R E P O R T

STATE CHARITABLE REGISTRATIONSThe address and telephone number of the National Anti-Vivisection Society may be found on page 13. You may obtain a copy of NAVS’ annual financial report by writ-ing to us. In addition, residents of the following states can receive copies as follows. In Arizona: A copy of the official registration may be obtained from the Secretaryof State, State of Arizona, State Capitol, 1700 West Washington 7th Floor, Phoenix, AZ 85007-2808 or by calling toll-free 800-458-5842. In California: A copy of theofficial financial statement may be obtained from the Attorney General’s Registry of Charitable Trusts, Department of Justice, P.O. Box 903447, Sacramento, CA 94203-4470 or by calling 916-445-2021. In Los Angeles: Information card on file with Los Angeles Police Commission. In Florida: A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION(#SC-03423) AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE 1-800-435-7352, WITHIN THESTATE. In Kansas: Kansas registration number is available upon request. A copy of the financial report is on file with the Kansas Secretary of State’s Office, Capitol -2nd Floor, Topeka, KS 66612. In Maryland: Upon request, Maryland residents may obtain a copy of the current financial statement of the charity from the Secretaryof State’s Office, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401 or from the charity directly. In Michigan: The charity’s Michigan registration number is available upon request. InNew Jersey: INFORMATION FILED WITH THE ATTORNEY GENERAL CONCERNING THIS CHARITABLE SOLICITATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE ATTORNEY GENERALOF THE STATE OF NEW JERSEY BY CALLING 201-504-6215. In New York: Upon request the latest annual report may be obtained from the charity directly bysending a self-addressed stamped envelope to the charity’s address or by writing to the Office of Charities Registration, Department of State, 162Washington Avenue, Albany, NY 12231. In North Carolina: A COPY OF THE LICENSE TO SOLICIT CHARITABLE CONTRIBUTIONS AS A CHARITABLE ORGANIZATION ORSPONSOR AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION OR A COPY OF THE LICENSE AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE SOLICITOR MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DEPARTMENTOF HUMAN SERVICES, SOLICITATION LICENSING BRANCH, BY CALLING (919) 733-4510. In Pennsylvania: A copy of the official registration and financial informationmay be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling toll-free within Pennsylvania, 800-732-0999. In Virginia: A financial statement is available fromthe Commonwealth of Virginia, Division of Consumer Affairs, P.O. Box 1163, Richmond, VA 23209 or by calling 804-786-1343. In Washington: Financial information isavailable from the Secretary of State, State of Washington, Olympia, WA 98504-9000. In West Virginia: Residents may obtain a summary of the registration and finan-cial documents from the Secretary of State, State Capitol, Charleston, WV 25305. In Wisconsin: A copy of the charity’s financial statement disclosing assets, liabilities,fund balances, revenue, and expenses for the preceding fiscal year will be provided upon request by writing to the charity’s name and address. REGISTRATION DOESNOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.

An “A” in Compassion New Jersey becomes ninth state to enact a student choice law.

dvocates for student choice havescored another victory, as NewJersey joins California, Florida,

Illinois, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania,Rhode Island and Virginia in giving stu-dents the choice not to dissect withoutpenalty. The New Jersey legislature over-whelmingly passed the legislation, whichwas signed into law on January 5, 2006.

The law applies to public school students ingrades K-12, and it includes a number ofprovisions regarding parental notification ofany dissection projects. It also obligatesschools to provide an appropriate alterna-tive, and prohibits discriminating againststudents who exercise the option not to dis-sect, vivisect, incubate, capture or otherwiseharm or destroy animals or any parts of ananimal as part of their course instruction.

NAVS has assisted New Jersey advocates in their efforts to pass this legislationsince 2002, when the bill was first intro-duced. To all our supporters in theGarden State who helped push this legislation through by calling and e-mail-ing their legislators, we say, “Well done!”and thank you all for participating in this successful campaign.

Now we have only 41 states to go. So ifyour state still does not have a studentchoice law, please consider enlisting thesupport of your state legislator in introduc-ing a bill. You can find a model studentchoice law at Animallaw.com, or you canalways call or e-mail the NAVS office forassistance. As we have seen in nine statesalready, your voice on behalf of animals can really make the difference!

A

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15W I N T E R 2 0 0 6

YOUR SUPPORT WILL HELP US SAVE MORE ANIMALS.Use this form for your donation or visit www.navs.org

PLEASE MAKE NAME AND/OR ADDRESS CORRECTIONS ON THE REVERSE SIDE.

Make your check payable to NAVS and return it in the envelope provided.Or mail to: NAVS, 3071 Paysphere Circle, Chicago, IL 60674-0030.

* If you haven’t already joined NAVS, a donation of $40 (or more) entitles you to full membership benefits.For more information on NAVS membership, call us at 800-888-NAVS (800-888-6287) or visit us at www.navs.org.

ANIMAL ACTION REPORT SOON

TO BE AVAILABLE ON-LINE.Let us know if you would prefer to viewfuture Animal Action Reports on-line.

You can help us save on printing and postage costs—

and free up funds to use directly for animals—by

reading subsequent issues of the Animal Action

Report on-line instead of receiving them through

the mail. If you’d like to switch from a paper version

of the Animal Action Report to an

e-version, simply check the box on

the above donor form. We’ll notify

you by e-mail that the next issue of

the Animal Action Report is available

for on-line viewing.

TOGETHER, WE’LL

MAKE A DIFFERENCE

FOR ANIMALS!Register on our website today at

www.navs.org to join our online

community of animal advocates.

Then click on “Tell a Friend” to

keep our community

growing and our

message of compassion

spreading!

Use this form to

send usyour e-mailaddress

Or visit

www.navs.orgto register on

our website

❏ Here is my gift to sponsor NAVS’ educational and advocacy programs.* GRD10 Enclosed is $_____________________

❏ Here is my gift in support of the NAVS Sanctuary Fund. GRS10 Enclosed is $ _____________________

❏ Send me information on how I can enjoy the convenience of having a monthly donation to NAVS debited from my credit card, checking or savings account. GRZ00

Please bill my credit card ❏ VISA ❏ MasterCard ❏ Discover ❏ AmEx Acct. Number __________________________

Exp. Date ____________________________________________ Signature ______________________________________________

PRINT Name Here __________________________________________ Daytime Phone __________________________________

❏ I want to receive your e-blasts. Here is my e-mail address. ________________________________________________

❏ I no longer wish to receive the Animal Action Report by mail; I will read it on-line.Please notify me of the availability of subsequent issues at my e-mail address as shown here ____________________________________

(In case of a question about your credit card.)

✃

69383 5.0 03/27/06 12:46 PM Page 15

alling all artists, photographers,poets and computer geniuses! Do you enjoy using your talent

to express your love for animals? Then wewant to hear from you.

The National Anti-Vivisection Society’s17th annual Art for Animals Classic is aboutto get underway, and, as always, the theme

is compassion. You could win valuable cashprizes, or even have your work published inone of our upcoming publications.

Here’s a special note to educators: The Artfor Animals Classic is a great class project.It provides an opportunity for your stu-dents to express themselves creatively whileexploring their feelings for animals.

To receive an entry form and competitionrules, please call us at 800-888-NAVS(800-888-6287).

Don’t delay—the deadline for entering yoursubmission is June 15, 2006.

16 A N I M A L A C T I O N R E P O R T

National Anti-Vivisection Society53 W. Jackson Blvd., Suite 1552Chicago, IL 60604

Return Services Requested

Non-Profit Org.U.S. Postage

PA I DNational Anti-

Vivisection Society

Here is your latest issue of NAVS ANIMAL ACTION REPORT

nimal advocates will be pleased toknow that Ohio State University(OSU) has closed its chimpanzee

research center after a four-year search for a retirement facility for the nine residentchimpanzees at the center. University officials had decided to close the facilitydue to “lack of competitive funding.”

At last, a new home for the chimpanzeeshas been found. Primarily Primates, thelargest primate sanctuary in the U.S., willbe taking in the animals, and OSU is establishing an endowment for their life-time care. The nine chimpanzees, five male

and four female, range in age from five to 47. Readers of the Animal Action Reportwill be familiar with Primarily Primates,because this wonderful sanctuary has beenthe well-deserved recipient of several NAVSSanctuary Fund grants.

The Associated Press recently reported thatother research centers are also looking toclose their doors and retire their residentchimpanzees—a real testament to theprogress that’s been made in recognizingthat these magnificent creatures deserve tolive out their lives in peace and harmonyafter being confined in a laboratory.

Ten years ago, no one in the research community would have been concernedabout finding a retirement home for theirresearch subjects. Today, chimpanzees andother animals are getting a new chance atlife, and with endowments to provide fortheir care and maintenance. This progresshas been made possible through construc-tive dialogue between animal advocates and the scientific community.

Ohio State University closes its chimpanzee research center.Resident chimpanzees will find a new home at Primarily Primates.

A

Time to Get Creative! The entry deadline for the NAVS Art for Animals Classic is June 15, 2006.

C

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