Comparative Biology Facility
Although animal-free biomedical research is increasingly possible, some scientific questions can only be answered using laboratory animals. In the absence of alternative methods, animal research is possible while strictly regulated by cantonal authorities in compliance with the 3Rs principles:
- Replacement: Replace the animal experiment with a procedure that does not involve animals whenever possible;
- Reduction: Reduce the number of laboratory animals to the absolute minimum;
- Refinement: Improve the experimental procedures to minimise pain, suffering or distress.
The Comparative Biology Facility provides optimal housing and breeding conditions for laboratory mice, in full respect of ethical standards and legal requirements. In a modern infrastructure, strict internal policies, experienced staff and well-trained personnel guarantee high-quality animal care and welfare.
The IOR Preclinical Imaging Facility is embedded within the Comparative Biology Facility and provides support to researchers working with small-animal models. The Facility offers a range of technologies and equipment to perform non-invasive longitudinal imaging studies.
To this aim, the Comparative Biology Facility is committed to respect ethical and legal standards and to provide the best conditions for housing and breeding mouse models. Besides a modern infrastructure, a strict internal policy and staff composed of experienced, dedicated and well-trained personnel guarantee a very high quality animal welfare and care.
This Facility is managed by the Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB): https://irb.usi.ch/facilities/comparative-biology/
