NABR responds to FDA’s plan on reducing animal testing

Statement from the National Association for Biomedical Research (NABR)
In response to Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s remarks on reducing animal testing at health agencies and the  Food and Drug Administration’s announcement Thursday on plans to phase out animal testing in the development of monoclonal antibody therapies and other drugs

WASHINGTON – Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s announcement of a “dramatic reduction in animal testing” at the FDA reflects a growing interest in emerging technologies, but it overlooks a critical truth: There is currently no full replacement for animal models in biomedical research and drug development.

Animal studies remain essential for understanding how complex biological systems function and for ensuring that new drugs and treatments are safe and effective before reaching human patients. From vaccines to cancer therapies to insulin, research involving animals has played a key role in nearly every major medical advance of the past century.

“We all want better and faster ways to bring lifesaving treatments to patients,” NABR President Matthew R. Bailey said. “But no AI model or simulation has yet demonstrated the ability to fully replicate all the unknowns about many full biological systems. That’s why humane animal research remains indispensable.”

We support innovation and the responsible integration of scientifically validated approaches, such as artificial intelligence, organ-on-chip systems and cell-based assays — when appropriate. These adjuncts can enhance research and help reduce animals in research, but they are not yet capable of fully replicating all the intricacies of living systems.

“AI is incredible and promises to speed up many aspects of research. However, one of the problems with AI is that it largely depends on pulling from existing data,” Mr. Bailey said. “The unknown variables could present the biggest risk to patients. So, it will be interesting to see where AI is validated as a replacement to a whole biological organism and where it isn’t.”

The FDA Modernization Act 2.0, passed in 2022, allows for the use of non-animal test methods where feasible, but it does not remove the need for animal testing. Animal models are still essential for evaluating safety and efficacy.

The industry stands ready to work with the FDA to ensure that patient safety remains a key priority alongside innovation.

NABR remains committed to the ethical and responsible conduct of research involving animals, following the internationally recognized principles of replacement, reduction and refinement. As scientific knowledge evolves, so too should scientific practices — but decisions that impact public health must remain grounded in science, not politics.

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About the National Association for Biomedical Research

Founded in 1979, the National Association for Biomedical Research (NABR) is the only 501(c)(6) nonprofit association dedicated to sound public policy for the humane use of animals in biomedical research, education and testing. Members include more than 340 universities, medical and veterinary schools, teaching hospitals, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, patient groups, and academic and professional societies who rely on humane and responsible animal research to advance global human and animal health. Learn more about us at www.nabr.org.