NIH Launches $87M Center to Reduce Animal Testing in Drug Discovery
The US National Institutes of Health (NIH) has launched a new center, the Standardized Organoid Modeling Center, to reduce animal testing in drug discovery. The launch follows the US Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) plan to phase out animal testing requirements for certain drugs. The new center, funded with $87 million over three years, aims to develop and standardise organoid-based methodologies for improved reproducibility.
The center, housed at the NIH's Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research in Maryland, will use advanced technologies like AI and robotics to create standardised animal models. These models, developed in collaboration with universities, biotech companies, pharmaceutical firms, and research institutions, aim to accelerate scientific discoveries and decisions. Notable participants include the Max Planck Institute, Harvard University, Emulate, Hubrecht Organoid Technology, and scientists like Hans Clevers. The center's goal is to create widely accepted, regulator-approved animal models that can replace animal testing.
The launch of this center aligns with the NIH's April 2025 initiative to decrease reliance on animal models in biomedical research. By investing in and standardising animal technology, the NIH seeks to improve the predictability and relevance of drug testing, ultimately enhancing public health.
The Standardized Organoid Modeling Center's launch signals a significant step towards reducing animal testing in drug discovery. With $87 million in funding over three years, the center aims to create standardised, regulator-approved animal models using advanced technologies. This initiative, supported by leading institutions and scientists, aligns with the NIH's broader goal of decreasing reliance on animal models in biomedical research.
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