In defense of animal research

Re “Animal rights group says it flooded home,” Oct. 30, and “Why I use animals in my research,” Opinion, Nov. 1

The College on Problems of Drug Dependence, the world’s longest-standing scientific organization focused on addictions, expresses unqualified support for the outstanding scientific work of our UCLA colleague, Edythe London, and outrage at the vandalism perpetrated against her home.

The research by London and other dedicated scientists working in the addictions field is essential to unraveling the scientific mysteries of these devastating medical disorders and bringing much-needed relief to those afflicted and their families. Criminal acts such as this recent one, apparently done in the name of humanity, only interfere with the scientific quest to find effective methods to treat and prevent addictions.

Stephen T. Higgins

President

College on Problems

of Drug Dependence

Burlington, Vt.

We deplore the terrorism perpetrated against London by animal rights extremists and commend her for her courage in eloquently describing the importance of biomedical research involving animals. We, including the animal rights extremists, are healthier and living longer because of animal research done under careful federal regulations and humane conditions.

Animal research has played a vital role in virtually every major medical advance of the last century. Practically every present-day protocol for the prevention, treatment and cure of disease and relief of pain and suffering among humans and animals is based on knowledge attained through research with laboratory animals. Because of animal research, many diseases that once killed millions of people every year are either preventable, treatable or have been eradicated altogether.

Research scientists like London deserve our highest praise and deepest appreciation for their noble work and do not deserve to be threatened and discouraged by despicable acts of terrorism.

William T.

Carpenter MD

President, Council of the

American College of

Neuropsychopharmacology

Nashville