The tragic escape of eight monkeys from Tulane University’s Biomedical Research Center in New Orleans on October 28, 2025, is just one of many incidents that highlight the dangers and unnecessary risks associated with using monkeys in research. As a wildlife veterinarian specializing in monkeys, I have seen firsthand the devastating effects of infectious disease transmission and the harm caused by experimental procedures.
Monkey research is often touted as a means to advance medical breakthroughs, but the reality is far from it. The use of monkeys in research has led to more questions than answers, and the benefits for humans are often overstated. In fact, many monkey species used in research live in matrilineal social groups or troops in the wild, where they are subjected to isolation, transport, and restraint that can lead to immunosuppression and harmful behavior.
Fortunately, alternative methods are available, such as human-based approaches like tissue chips, organoids, and artificial intelligence. These methods are advancing rapidly and have overcome species-specific translational barriers that contribute to massive drug attrition rates. By shifting our approach from animal use to human-based research, we can ensure that our medical advancements benefit humans without putting animals at risk.
Moreover, the global trade of monkeys for research purposes is driving population declines in certain species, with some listed as endangered. The recent reports from breeding facilities in Asia highlight biologically impossible birth rates and high numbers of illegally wild-caught animals, further condemning the monkey trade.
As countries like the Netherlands and the United States move away from using monkeys for research, it’s clear that change is necessary. Halting unnecessary animal experimentation and refocusing funding on human-based methods will ensure that medical advancements benefit humans without risking public health or animal welfare. It’s time to reevaluate our approach to medical research and prioritize compassion, safety, and effectiveness above all else.
Source: https://www.mississippifreepress.org/opinion-the-risks-of-animal-experimentation