Animals in Research

The BHF is 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.

We put our all grant applications through a strict peer review system when deciding which to fund. This makes sure that all our funded scientists are following a clear set of principles to
            -       reduce the number of animals used
            -       replace experiments with non-animal alternatives where possible
            -       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 BHF 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 download / order  or email policy@bhf.org.uk

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