Core Viewpoint - The CDC has issued a directive to end all research projects involving the use of monkeys by the end of this year, marking a significant shift in animal research policy in the U.S. [3][4] Group 1: CDC Directive and Its Implications - The directive affects approximately 200 monkeys used primarily for infectious disease research, including HIV prevention and antiviral treatments [3]. - This is the first time a U.S. government agency has terminated non-human primate research since the NIH initiated a retirement plan for chimpanzees a decade ago [3]. - The future of these monkeys is uncertain, with possibilities including relocation to primate sanctuaries or euthanasia [3]. Group 2: New Methodologies in Research - Advocates for "new methodologies" such as organoids believe this marks the beginning of a "post-animal era" in research [3]. - The CDC's directive is seen as a potential model for transitioning to advanced alternative technologies, although achieving complete replacement of animal models is complex [4]. - The NIH still oversees nearly 7,000 non-human primates, indicating that the CDC's directive does not apply to all research institutions [4]. Group 3: Challenges of Replacement Technologies - Experts caution that while organoids and other new methodologies show promise, they cannot fully replicate the complexity of human diseases [4]. - The current state of recognized alternatives to animal testing remains limited, with few validated methods available [4]. - The debate continues on the extent to which organoids can replace animal models in biomedical research [4]. Group 4: Global Perspective and Future Directions - The focus should be on which countries can effectively implement alternative methodologies in translational medicine and drug evaluation [5]. - The CDC's decision highlights a growing contradiction in biomedical research: the need for new therapies while still relying on animal models for certain critical research areas [5]. - Addressing the balance between ethical considerations and scientific needs is essential for the advancement of both science and ethics [5].

Core Viewpoint - The CDC has issued a directive to end all research projects involving the use of monkeys by the end of this year, marking a significant shift in animal research policy in the U.S. [2] Group 1: Research and Policy Changes - Approximately 200 monkeys used for infectious disease research, including HIV and hepatitis, will be affected by the CDC's directive [2] - This is the first time a U.S. government agency has terminated non-human primate research projects since the NIH initiated a retirement plan for chimpanzees a decade ago [2] - The directive may lead to some monkeys being transferred to primate sanctuaries, while others may face euthanasia [2] Group 2: Alternative Research Methods - The announcement has sparked discussions among advocates of "new methodologies," suggesting a transition to a "post-animal era" in research [2] - The NIH still oversees nearly 7,000 non-human primates, indicating that the CDC's directive does not apply to all animal research in the U.S. [3] - Experts highlight that while the CDC's decision may be framed as a move towards advanced alternative technologies, fully replacing animal models is complex and not straightforward [3] Group 3: Global Perspective and Future Implications - The focus should be on which countries can develop solid results in alternative methodologies to gain a competitive edge in translational medicine and drug evaluation [4] - The termination of the monkey research program highlights a growing contradiction in biomedical research: the need for new therapies while determining when animal models are essential [4] - Responsible answers to the questions of when to use animals versus alternative methods are crucial for advancing both science and ethics [4]