ToXchange Research involving laboratory animals is necessary to ensure and enhance human and animal health and to protect the environment. In the absence of human data, research with experimental animals (in concert with relevant in vitro data) is the most reliable methodology to detect important toxic properties of chemical substances and to estimate risks to human and environmental health. The SOT has established various committees and task forces since 1981 to ensure that SOT scientists using animals are doing so in accordance with all federal laws.
The Society of Toxicology is dedicated to the acquisition and dissemination of knowledge that improves the health and safety of humans and animals and the protection of the environment.
To fulfill this objective, the Society is committed to:
- The design and conduct of the best possible scientific research;
- The responsible use of laboratory animals in toxicological research and testing as necessary and vital to ensure and enhance the quality of human, animal health, and the environment;
- The development and use of alternatives to the use of animals;
- The use of research designs that employ less painful or stressful procedures and improve animal care; and
- A reduction in the number of animals used for research and testing when this is scientifically appropriate and valid.
SOT Statements
Use of Animals in Research
- SOT Guiding Principles in the Use of Animals in Toxicology (Last revised in July 2016)
- Statement on the US EPA Memorandum “Directive to Prioritize Efforts to Reduce Animal Testing” (September 2019)
- Transportation of Animals for Research (April 2016)
- Alternative Toxicity Test Methods: Reducing, Refining, and Replacing Animal Use for Safety Testing (Last reviewed in April 2015)
Resources and Additional Information
- Animals in Research Brochure, developed by SOT
- Animal Research: Perceptions vs. Reality, developed by the Foundation for Biomedical Research (FBR)
- Messaging Guide for Scientists Discussing Humane, Responsible Animal Research
- Humanized Mouse Models Fact Sheet, developed by FASEB