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Replacing Animal Testing with Stem Cell-Organoids : Advantages and Limitations

Stem Cell Rev Rep. 2024 Aug;20(6):1375-1386. doi: 10.1007/s12015-024-10723-5. Epub 2024 Apr 19.

Abstract

Various groups including animal protection organizations, medical organizations, research centers, and even federal agencies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, are working to minimize animal use in scientific experiments. This movement primarily stems from animal welfare and ethical concerns. However, recent advances in technology and new studies in medicine have contributed to an increase in animal experiments throughout the years. With the rapid increase in animal testing, concerns arise including ethical issues, high cost, complex procedures, and potential inaccuracies.Alternative solutions have recently been investigated to address the problems of animal testing. Some of these technologies are related to stem cell technologies, such as organ-on-a-chip, organoids, and induced pluripotent stem cell models. The aim of the review is to focus on stem cell related methodologies, such as organoids, that can serve as an alternative to animal testing and discuss its advantages and limitations, alongside regulatory considerations.Although stem cell related methodologies has shortcomings, it has potential to replace animal testing. Achieving this requires further research on stem cells, with potential societal and technological benefits.

Keywords: Animal Testing Alternatives; Animal Testing law; Organ-on-chips; Organoids; Stem Cell; iPSC.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animal Testing Alternatives
  • Animals
  • Humans
  • Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells / cytology
  • Organoids* / cytology
  • Stem Cell Research / ethics
  • Stem Cells / cytology