The Dawn of a New Era: Phasing Out Animal Testing with AI and Lab-Based Models in FDA Regulation

The ethical and scientific debate surrounding animal testing has persisted for decades. While animal models have historically played a crucial role in drug development and regulatory approval processes, advancements in technology and shifting ethical considerations are prompting a reevaluation of this paradigm. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), a cornerstone of public health protection in the United States, stands at a pivotal juncture. This essay argues that the FDA should prioritize and accelerate the phasing out of animal testing, embracing Artificial Intelligence (AI) and lab-based models as robust and ethically sound alternatives.