Final answer:
The false statement about the use of rats in biomedical research is that they are not used at all, which is incorrect as they are commonly used due to their similarities to humans. However, rats may not be suitable for studying all diseases.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that is false concerning the use of rats in biomedical research is that rats are not used in any type of biomedical research. Contrary to this statement, rats are indeed commonly used in biomedical research. They are favored due to their similar physiological and genetic characteristics to humans, which makes them suitable models for studying a wide range of diseases and medical conditions. However, it's important to note that while rats are widely used, there are certain diseases for which they are not suitable models. This could be due to various factors including specific genetic or physiological differences that affect the disease process or the outcome of the research.
Despite their utility, the use of rats and other animals in research is subject to ongoing ethical debate. Alternatives to animal testing are being explored, such as computer models, simulations, and in vitro methods based on human cell and tissue cultures. Nevertheless, rodent models, including rats, remain a cornerstone in medical research for now.