Annual Report 2024

Central Animal Division

Hidetoshi Kassai, Mami Takahashi, Yusuke Sakai, Yurika Shiotani, Seiko Ogawa, Takako Sakamoto, Daisuke Ito, Saori Kobayashi, Chihiro Nishizawa, Towa Nagai, Haruka Taniguchi, Shinichi Tamura, Hiyuu Seino, Satomi Takahashi, Yosuke Kondo, Keiki Namiki, Akane Iwama

Introduction

 The Central Animal Division serves as a core animal experimentation facility within the National Cancer Center, supporting life science research with a primary focus on cancer and drug discovery. We maintain an SPF-level housing environment and are equipped to accommodate diverse research needs, particularly for genetically engineered mice and immunodeficient mice.

 In conducting animal experiments, we operate under strict management in compliance with various domestic laws and guidelines. In addition, based on the "3Rs principle," we promote initiatives that seek to balance scientific validity with animal welfare in line with international standards.

 In recent years, social expectations surrounding animal experimentation have been shifting toward enhanced ethics and transparency. Our facility proactively incorporates these domestic and global trends, striving to optimize the use of laboratory animals and improve animal welfare, while contributing to the advancement of healthcare and the well-being of the public.

Research Activities

 With regard to the operation of the animal experimentation facility, we maintained the infrastructure and managed animal housing to ensure the proper conduct of animal experiments. In addition, we organized training lectures on animal experimentation and optimized experimental manuals, thereby working to raise users' awareness of animal welfare.

 With regard to research activities, we advanced the sophistication and efficiency of animal experimentation techniques as a foundation supporting cutting-edge medical research, including cancer studies. In particular, we promoted the introduction and practical application of new technologies to improve the efficiency of genome editing using the CRISPR/Cas9 system. We also streamlined processes of embryo engineering techniques such as in vitro fertilization and oviductal transplantation, thereby meeting the needs of facility users in maintaining and managing genetically modified mouse strains. These research efforts not only enhance the quality and efficiency of animal experimentation but also directly contribute to internationally required considerations of animal welfare, establishing a foundation that provides researchers at NCC with a sustainable research environment.

Education

 We organized training lectures on animal experimentation and conducted reviews of animal experiment protocols, providing education and hands-on training to ensure that animal experiments are carried out properly in accordance with animal welfare principles.

Future Prospects

 The animal research facility will continue to advance the research environment as a foundation that supports life sciences, including cancer research, while further strengthening compliance with laws and regulations as well as consideration for animal welfare.