Genetic Modification of Animals for Scientific Purposes: Exploring Technological Possibilities, Regulatory Issues, Animal Welfare, and Ethical Concerns

Authored by Mickey Gjerris, this book delves into the genetic modification of animals for scientific purposes, encompassing technological capabilities, regional regulatory frameworks, animal welfare implications, and broader ethical considerations. The discussion is particularly pertinent given the rapid advancements in CRISPR-Cas9 technology, which is challenging legal and ethical paradigms globally.

With genetically modified animals now accessible and affordable for various scientific research disciplines, the potential for creating tailored models for human diseases is immense. However, this also raises questions about the traditional guiding principles (the 3Rs) for the humane use of animals in scientific experiments and sparks wider ethical debates centered on death, integrity, and naturalness.

A diverse group of expert authors from laboratory animal care, animal research, technology, and animal rights backgrounds contribute to this book, exploring topics such as the science underlying biotech research animals, the regulation of their use, and ethical perspectives including utilitarian, animal rights, virtue ethics, and ethics of care, as well as critical animal studies viewpoints on the application of these technologies.

Irrespective of your background or role in animal research, this book is designed to stimulate deeper reflection on the advantages, drawbacks, and ethical repercussions of employing biotechnology in the animal laboratory.

Publication Details:
Publisher: CRC Press
Publication Date: December 6, 2023
Language: English
ISBN: 9781138369191, 9780429768217