Research at the Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology includes many different experimental approaches to decipher the mechanisms of nature. Among them are animal models and animal-free models (non-animal models, NAMs), which are able to artificially mimic distinct (patho)physiological settings.

Wherever possible we use animal-free models, and we engage actively in improving these approaches and widening their scope. However, when it comes to complex mechanisms involving the whole organism, or to peculiar properties of naturally developed cells or organs, animal models cannot be fully replaced. For instance, there are no surrogates for the function-related neuronal architecture within a living organism, and even less for studying these functions in a living and behaving organism. Likewise, NAMs are still limited in mimicking systemically integrated organ functions (e.g. in kidney), sex-specific differences of cellular responses or biochemically  sensitive disseminated organs such as the cardiovascular system.

Nevertheless, NAMs play a fundamental role in Replacing in vivo experiments wherever possible or Reducing the number of animals required for research. As such, they greatly contribute to the 3R-principle (Replace, Reduce, Refine) as a critical cornerstone of animal welfare). 

Currently, we apply NAMs comprising four levels of complexity:

• 2D cell culture models
• 3D cell culture models
• Organoids
• Organ culture