[The need for experiments using primates from a scientific point of view]

Area of Science:

• * Primarily focused on biomedical research, including toxicology, pharmaceutical safety, neuroscience, and infection research.
• * Utilizes New and Old World monkeys, with no chimpanzees used in German laboratories for many years.

Context:

• * Addresses the public discourse surrounding the necessity of animal experiments involving primates.
• * Highlights the current reliance on non-human primates in specific scientific domains within Germany.

Purpose:

• * To demonstrate the indispensable role of non-human primates in current scientific research.
• * To provide examples justifying the continued need for these animals in specific research fields.

Summary:

• * Non-human primates are predominantly utilized in Germany for regulatory toxicology and pharmaceutical safety assessments.
• * A smaller proportion supports fundamental biological and biomedical research, notably in neurosciences and infection research.
• * The study presents evidence that certain research areas will require non-human primates for the foreseeable future.

Impact:

• * Informs the ongoing public and scientific discussion on the ethical considerations and practical necessity of primate research.
• * Underscores the critical role of non-human primates in ensuring drug safety and advancing understanding in complex biological systems.
• * Provides a basis for future policy and ethical guidelines regarding animal experimentation in Germany.