Then the cells can be challenged with HIV and analyzed. These SCID mice are being used to look at drug development and pathogenesis as it relates to central immune system organs such as the thymus. The importance of using these SCID mice for AIDS research cannot be underestimated. We will never be able to have a protective vaccine, which will be the most important preventative measure for the growing worldwide AIDS pandemic, unless we can use animal models. But nobody expects, or wants, uncontrolled or cruel conditions for the animals.
Animal welfare is protected in research through existing complex laws and regulations.
The animal Welfare Act enacted in 1966 protects animals through a detailed system of regulations and inspections. Each research institution that uses animals must establish in Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee that incorporates a veterinarian and someone not involved in the institution. There are also government principles for the utilization and care of animals used in testing. The Public Health Service Act creates a mandate for federal law regarding the existing policies of using animals in research. Good Laboratory Practice Standards of the FDA require inspections and documentation of studies performed on animals.