Faster, short-term tests are now used to screen substances. If it causes changes in DNA, it is considered a mutagen, or potential carcinogen. Alternatives in Cancer Research. Although no alternatives could completely replace the use of mice in current cancer research, uses of mice have already been reduced and refined. In vitro systems such as cell and tissue culture are the primary alternatives.
Cell culture is less expensive than the use of whole animals and is easier to manipulate.
For example, cancer-causing effects of radiation have been studied in cell culture. Changes in the growth of cells are good indicators for revealing when normal cells become tumor-producing. Some aspects of cancer research require whole animal studies cells cannot mimic the physiology of a live animal. Clinical studies involving humans are another alternative. In vivo, in vitro, and clinical studies all combined produce the most informative results.