Final answer:
Nonhuman research is mostly conducted with mice, rats, and birds in biomedical laboratories. These animals are chosen for their biological similarities to humans, facilitating research in medical, psychological, and pharmaceutical domains. Ethical standards are strictly enforced for the humane treatment of these animals, with oversight by regulatory bodies like IACUC.
Step-by-step explanation:
Nonhuman Research in Biomedical Laboratories
The majority of nonhuman research conducted in biomedical laboratories is predominantly performed on certain types of animals. Notably, the most commonly used species in the United States are mice, rats, and birds. These animals are essential for a wide array of research purposes, including medical experiments, drug testing, product safety evaluations, and psychological studies. Biomedical research utilizes these animals owing to their biological similarities to humans in many aspects, making them vital models for understanding human physiology and for developing treatments for various diseases.
Animal Ethics and Welfare in Research
Despite the crucial role of these animals in scientific progress, their use in research is subject to stringent ethical regulations. An example of this is the oversight by Institutional Animal Care and Use Committees (IACUC), which is mandatory to ensure that procedures cause minimal pain and distress to the animals. Furthermore, the research facilities undergo regular inspections to confirm humane treatment of the animals involved in research.
Due to ethical concerns, such as the lack of consent from animals compared to human subjects, researchers are required to implement additional precautions. These actions are directed to maximize the welfare and humane treatment of the animals used in research facilities.
Broader Impact of Animal Research
Animal research has provided invaluable insights into the human immune system and has been pivotal in the development of various medical innovations, including vaccines and therapies. It also influences our understanding of the human-animal relationship and helps frame the ethical discourse surrounding the use of nonhuman subjects in research.