Anthony Nolan does not conduct animal research in our laboratories, nor does it fund animal research in other institutes.
However occasionally, when pioneering research requires it and there is no alternative available, we work with other researchers at academic institutions for example, to ensure the in vivo validity of our research results. These collaborative projects are usually sponsored by research councils or other charities. Anthony Nolan funds are only used for work carried out at our own laboratories where we do not conduct animal research. However, there are instances where the authorities that regulate the manufacture and production of new medicinal products will not allow new medicines until they are rigorously tested in animals. We, like others, must adhere to regulations and therefore sometimes have no choice but to work with colleagues at other institutions in order to validate our results. The use of animals in research is heavily regulated in the UK and can only be carried out under Home Office licensing in very special premises with specific permissions and by fully qualified personnel, which we ensure all our collaborators adhere to.
We would like to reassure you that we strive always to minimise the use of animal testing and find in vitro alternatives and that we ensure that if and when we have no alternatives, experimentation is conducted in the most appropriate ways following all the regulations and the principles of the 3Rs (replace, reduce, refine). We are fully committed to using human tissues/cells and other in vitro (in the test tube) testing for our research where we can and finding new ways in which our findings can be validated without the use of animals.
Cancer survival has doubled over the past 40 years. This achievement would not have been possible without animal research, which has resulted in the discovery, development and testing of life-saving treatments. As a member of the Association of Medical Research Charities (AMRC) we support the principle of using animals in research when it is necessary to advance understanding of health and disease and to develop new treatments.
You can read more about our overall research strategy here.