Advancing predictive biology
As identified on the 2021 Nationals Research Infrastructure Roadmap Exposure Draft, the importance of protecting Australians from health threats has been highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Improving health outcomes through novel medical products, platforms and technologies has the potential to improve quality of life and decrease health-related costs.
Research to improve health outcomes should be underpinned by research infrastructure including National facilities supporting pre-clinical research and clinical research through advanced predictive biology capabilities.
“Pre-clinical research support includes modelling for both disease mechanisms and early drug candidate testing, as well as medical imaging infrastructure. This is performed both in animal models and newer ex vivo and in vitro models. It is recognised that alternatives to animal models are becoming more prominent, but also that it is unlikely live models can be fully replaced for some time.”
Phenomics Australia will soon announce an expanded portfolio of model systems and expertise. The compelling rationale for these new investments is supported by the landmark report ‘A non-animal technologies roadmap for the UK – Advancing predictive biology’ (2015), prepared by six key science organisations within the UK. The report recognises ‘non-animal technologies (NATs) as one of a series of emerging technologies with the potential to drive future UK economic growth’. It sets out themes and perspectives with solid recommendations that inform Australian strategies today. Read more here.
Further information below
The report was co-authored by Innovate UK, the National Centre for the Replacement Refinement and Reduction of Animals in Research, the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council, the Defence, Science and Technology Laboratory, the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, and the Medical Research Council.
