May 15, 2024
Envol Biomedical is a specialty drug development nonclinical contract research laboratory focused on the use of nonhuman primates (NHP) as valuable research resources to advance therapies for humankind. In recent years, access to nonhuman primates has been difficult due to shortages related to procuring ethically obtained animals and increasing demand due to the pandemic. The continued evolution of therapies that require evaluation in models that have close genetic translation to humans is driving this demand even higher.
The use of NHP’s in research is well established and has been reviewed recently by the National Academy of Sciences and many other publications have documented the importance of their use and the absolute need to ensure compliance with animal welfare and the 3R’s of reduction, replacement, and refinement. Envol, as part of our strategy to be a leading NHP research facility, also seeks to ensure the highest ethical standards for responsible use. Some of these approaches are summarized below.
Embracing a Well-Balanced Approach to NHP Research
At Envol, implementing best practices throughout our organization ensures that the well-being of non-human primates remains paramount. At the same time, researchers continue to pursue groundbreaking discoveries aimed at developing lifesaving drugs and treatments.
Envol is compliant with the Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare (OLAW), which ensures compliance with the Public Health Service (PHS) Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals. OLAW provides guidance and interpretation of the PHS Policy, supports educational programs, and monitors policy compliance via institutional assurances and PHS funding components. These activities ensure the humane care and use of animals in PHS-supported research, testing, and teaching, thereby contributing to the quality of these supported activities.
Envol is proud to be accredited with AAALAC International. AAALAC works with institutions and researchers to serve as a bridge between progress in biomedical research and animal well-being. This is done through AAALAC’s voluntary accreditation process in which research programs demonstrate that they not only meet minimum standards required by law, but that they exceed these standards in order to achieve excellence in animal care and use. In this way, AAALAC International is where science and responsible animal care connect.
Promoting Industry Standard Practices in Animal Husbandry
At Envol, promoting the design and use of enriched environments within research facilities is essential for fostering non-human primates’ psychological and physical well-being.
Enrichment strategies include providing opportunities for social interaction, cognitive stimulation, and access to naturalistic elements like vegetation and climbing structures. These measures help prevent boredom, alleviate stress, and foster species-typical behaviors, thus contributing to overall welfare.
Our team members strongly support that ethical care also entails the implementation of rigorous veterinary care protocols and monitoring systems to ensure early detection and treatment of health issues. Regular health assessments, vaccinations, and preventive measures are integral to maintaining non-human primate colonies’ health and integrity.
The Three R’s of NHP Research Studies
Balancing ethical animal husbandry with the pressing need to unlock new drugs involves a commitment to the principles of the Three Rs: Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement. Envol works with their clients to identify the most efficient and effective use of animal models. This includes working to identify the proper size and execution of studies, but also to identify alternative models as a part of our Three Rs strategy. Envol has direct access to our sister company Odin Bioresources, which aims to make animal and human bioresources and matrices available for in vitro and ex vivo screening approaches.
Envol Biomedical: Pioneering Ethical Practices in Non-Human Primate Research
Ethically sourcing and caring for non-human primates in biopharma research involves a holistic approach that prioritizes animal welfare, scientific integrity, and ethical responsibility. By adopting best practices and embracing the principles of compassion and respect, researchers can navigate the complex ethical landscape of non-human primate research while striving to unlock new lifesaving drugs and treatments.
Envol Understands the Myriad Challenges to NHP Research
The utilization of non-human primates for research purposes within the biopharma industry has also been fraught with other complexities, including cost considerations and supply chain disruptions. Non-human primate research is often expensive due to the specialized care and infrastructure required. Export limitations and increased demand from emerging markets have disrupted the global supply chain.
Envol Biomedical has taken decisive steps to address these challenges head-on. With decades of experience behind us, Envol has pioneered ethically sound breeding and supply agreement practices to ensure the welfare and sustainability of its non-human primate colonies. Envol navigates complex regulatory landscapes cautiously, ensuring compliance with rigorous standards while streamlining client processes. We’ve expanded our reach while maintaining high ethical and quality standards by forging sustainable partnerships with breeding facilities in various regions.
Flexibility and nimbleness are our trademarks. Envol’s vast private colony enables ease of access to diverse species of NHPs, with subsequent rapid screening, down-selection, and enrollment of animals into studies, empowering clients with flexibility and speed in their research endeavors.
With our legacy of integrity, expertise, and service excellence, Envol invites prospective clients to embark on a journey of discovery and innovation. Through its steadfast commitment to ethical excellence and unwavering dedication to scientific advancement, Envol Biomedical continues to redefine the possibilities of non-human primate research, one breakthrough at a time. Contact us today to explore the opportunities and revolutionize the biomedical research landscape.
