Computer Simulation Models are Implementable as Replacements for Animal Experiments

Abstract

It has become increasingly difficult to perform animal experiments, because of issues related to the procurement of animals, and strict regulations and ethical issues related to their use. As a result, it is felt that the teaching of pharmacology should be more clinically oriented and that unnecessary animal experimentation should be avoided. Although a number of computer simulation models (CSMs) are available, they are not being widely used. Interactive demonstrations were conducted to encourage the departmental faculty to use CSMs. Four different animal experiments were selected, that dealt with actions of autonomic drugs. The students observed demonstrations of animal experiments involving conventional methods and the use of CSMs. This was followed by hands-on experience of the same experiment, but using CSMs in small groups, instead of hands-on experience with the animal procedures. Test scores and feedback showed that there was better understanding of the mechanisms of action of the drugs, gained in a shorter time. The majority of the students found the teaching programme used to be good to excellent. CSMs can be used repeatedly and independently by students, and this avoids unnecessary experimentation and also causing pain and trauma to animals. The CSM programme can be implemented in existing teaching schedules for pharmacology undergraduate teaching with basic infrastructure support, and is readily adaptable for use by other institutes.

Animal use in pharmacology education and research: The changing scenario

“…The latter have however declined owing to the ban on use of frogs. [32122] Although no data is available from India, most medical colleges have begun using or in transition phase to implement alternatives to animal experiments in undergraduate courses. [1316]…”

“…[32122] Although no data is available from India, most medical colleges have begun using or in transition phase to implement alternatives to animal experiments in undergraduate courses. [1316]Postgraduate teaching to demonstrate the effects of various drugs, to determine the nature of an unknown drug for bioassay, screening methods and to learn skills e.g. administering drugs.…”

“…The upgraded versions of the earlier software programs are available but no innovative comprehensive software has been introduced so far. [3]…”

“…Many medical schools in India and other countries have either introduced alternatives to these experiments or are deliberating on this contentious issue. [23]…”

“…These experiments are expensive, time consuming and tedious. [34] Also, the availability of animals is becoming sparse. Guidelines by Committee for the Purpose of Control and Supervision of Experiments on Animals (CPCSEA), University Grants Commission (UGC) and the Medical Council of India (MCI), suggest 3 Rs i.e., replacement, refinement and reduction in animal experiments, with the fourth R added, that is their rehabilitation, as an added measure for their care.…”