Animals in research
We are dedicated to saving lives by developing better
treatments and cures for heart conditions. As part of this work we
support essential research using cells grown in a laboratory,
computer models, and human volunteers. Where these are not
feasible, we fund research using animals.
All our grant applications go through a strict peer review system
when deciding which to fund. This makes sure that
all BHF-funded scientists are following a clear set of
principles - the
three Rs - to
reduce the number of animals used and maximise their welfare.
- replace experiments with non-animal
alternatives where possible
- reduce the number of animals used
- refine the care and attention of animals to
achieve the highest welfare standards
When our researchers do use animals, all work is carried out in
line with strict Home
Office guidelines.
This is not an issue we or our funded researchers take
lightly.
The research community is constantly developing new techniques
to help us use fewer animals or non-animal models. Our scientists
carry out as much of their research as possible on human
volunteers, cells, or computers.
However, completely replacing all animals in research is not yet
possible. There is no alternative method that can reproduce the
complicated working of our hearts and circulatory systems.
More work to be done
Many of the treatments we commonly use today could not have been
developed without animal research. Heart failure
medicines,
pacemakers, and
heart
transplants are just a few examples.
But heart and circulatory disease is still the UK’s single biggest
killer. We need more research to develop new treatments and help
people live longer happier lives. And sometimes, we will need
animal research to do this.
For more information please see our
Animal and Heart Research leaflet or email policy@bhf.org.uk