From lab animal to lab model: an animal-free future in the lab

The development of medicines, medical technology and food products contributes to better health and a more sustainable society. However, the way in which we conduct this research is increasingly being questioned. Traditional methods, such as animal testing, do not always provide a reliable translation to humans. This calls for a new approach. In this seminar we explore how innovative technologies and animal-free methods contribute to a more effective and human-oriented research process. You will discover how science, industry and policy work together on solutions that are not only more ethical, but also perform better. DThink ahead, look further and discover the opportunities of a future without animal testing.

Please note: this seminar will be held in English.

Presentation 1: “The Centre for Animal-Free Biomedical Translation (CPBT): a knowledge centre for valorizing and disseminating animal-free innovations and expertise.”

The translation of biomedical knowledge to patients and users results in new medicines, medical technologies, and food products. This benefits our health, our environment, and economy. Animal testing is currently an important link in the biomedical development process, but it is increasingly under pressure. Often, animal tests are not a good model for human application. To continue improving the health of humans and animals, a radically different approach is needed: making the step to humans and animals faster and more effective, without relying on animal testing by default.

The new Center for Animal-Free Biomedical Translation (CPBT, in Dutch: Ccenter for Proefdier free Bimedical Ttranslation) will shape this approach, creating new business opportunities around animal-free technologies and biomedical translation.

Speaker: Daniela Salvatori

Presentation 2: A new ERA in Safety Testing of Industrial Chemicals

This presentation showcases the transformative shift in regulatory toxicology for industrial chemicals driven by the rise of New Approach Methodologies (NAMs). As a leading Contract Research Organization (CRO), Charles River Laboratories (CRL) is committed to the safe and efficient development of pharmaceuticals and industrial chemicals. With the evolving regulatory landscape, NAMs are increasingly recognized as scientifically robust, ethically sound, and human-relevant alternative to traditional animal testing.

Current examples of standalone NAMs and integrated NAMs already in use at CRL for the safety testing of industrial chemicals will be presented. These methods have partially or fully replaced animal testing or enhance the safety testing of chemicals for several toxicity endpoints. However, still a lot of innovation, validation and regulatory acceptance is needed to come to an overall animal-free test strategy. The practical contribution of Charles River to this ongoing process will be discussed.

Speaker: Walter Westerink, Charles River Laboratories

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