Introduction

Abstract

Humankind is, at the beginning of this millennium, in possession of a trove of scientific and technological achievements that until recently were deemed unimaginable. The multiple and profound consequences information technology has had on the scientific community and our own personal lives is remarkable. Due in part to what we now know about DNA and the entire genetic apparatus, we have seen great advances in molecular biology. Much of the developments in the field of biomedicine can be attributed to the use of laboratory animals. Because of these creatures we have been able to improve the well-being of our own species.