AMMF’s position on the use of animals in research

As one of its major objectives, AMMF supports specialised research teams in their work to find the causes, methods of earlier diagnosis, and effective treatments for cholangiocarcinoma (CC).

AMMF funds research where scientists use lab-grown cells, tissue samples, computer models and, only when appropriate, animals.  We understand that in seeking to advance the understanding of cholangiocarcinoma, where there is no suitable alternative that can be used to gain reliable results, then it may be necessary to use animals.  AMMF does not take the decision to fund research where animals will be used lightly.

AMMF’s ‘Terms and Conditions of Research Grants’ include important provisos regarding the use of animals in research. AMMF’s full Terms and Conditions, including those provisos, must be accepted and agreed to before a grant is awarded.

AMMF includes the following specific provisos in its Terms and Conditions with regard to the use of animals in any research the charity supports:

“Wherever possible, researchers must adopt procedures and techniques that avoid the use of animals. Where this is not possible, the research should be designed so that:

  • The least sentient species with the appropriate physiology is used.
  • The number of animals used is the minimum sufficient to provide adequate statistical power to answer the questions posed.
  • The severity of procedures performed on animals is kept to a minimum. Experiments should be kept as short as possible. Appropriate anaesthesia, analgesia and humane end points should be used to minimise any pain and suffering.

AMMF expects the ‘Guidelines for the Welfare and Use of Animals in Cancer Research’, and any amendments or updates to be strictly adhered to.

And the provisions of the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986, and any amendments, must be observed and all necessary licences must have been received before any work requiring approval takes place: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1986/14/contents

To read AMMF’s “Terms & Conditions of Research Grants” in full, click here

Back to previous page