Rodents

85% of animals used in medical research in 2001 were rats, mice and other rodents. This percentage will probably increase as the mouse is the favoured animal model for research into the function of human genes and the role genes play in disease.

Rodents, like all vertebrates taking part in research programmes in the UK, are protected by the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 and there are strict codes of practice governing their housing and welfare.