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Animal Testing and Researching Essay

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Animal Testing and Researching

Animal testing is supported by some, but opposed to others. The growing number of animals used in research differs among the different countries. The fruit fly and nematode are the most used animal in testing. However, the most common mammals used in animal research are mice and rats. Shaved albino rabbits and guinea pigs suffer severe testing for skin irritancy and eye irritancy. Though the usage of non-human primates are outlawed in some countries, the U.S. still finds the need to use them. The U.S. government uses tax dollars for testing pesticides and flourine products on animals.
Animal testing has been a subject of controversy throughout the years. Though it may seem like a ?cruel and unusual …show more content…

These small rodents are easy to handle and raise, thus used in large proportions. Mice and rats can be tested for various results. Since mice share ninety-nine percent of their genes with humans, believe it or not, they are considered the ?prime model of inherited human disease?. In addition to genetics, rats and mice are used to understand how different organisms interact with each other in the same environment. (Wikipedia) They are used for the study of human cancers and testing of new treatments because of its immunodeficiency status, allowing human tumors to be grafted on without rejection. (UCCA) Some rats are even used for studies of brain function, commonly memory and social behavior. The safety of drugs, vaccines, chemicals, and products are also tested on mice. (Wikipedia)
Though rats may seem like the most popular lab animal, the most animals used in testing are actually invertebrates, especially the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, and the nematode, Caeharbabditis elegans. These, like rats, are very cost efficient and can be studied in a large number. Their short life cycle also makes it convenient for genetic studies. Many invertebrate species are not protected under animal research legislation, so the number of invertebrates used in research is unknown. (Wikipedia)
Shaved albino rabbits and guinea pigs are generally used for skin irritancy testing. Though test tests

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