In a little-noticed move, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recently began denying company requests to import certain monkeys from Cambodia for use in early-stage drug research. Now, the pharmaceutical industry is trying to push back by lobbying Congress.
The National Association for Biomedical Research argues the situation is a “crisis,” with 60% of the supply of non-human primates “critical” to early-stage research now out of reach. So the trade group, which advocates for using animals in pharmaceutical research, is organizing a letter-writing campaign to urge members of Congress to “quickly secure the U.S. supply chain” without interruption.
“This disruption will significantly slow the U.S. biopharmaceutical pipeline, stifle scientific advancement, impair research, halt industry-wide economic growth, and deprive patients of potentially life-saving treatments,” the NABR letter states. “The gravity of this situation cannot be understated.” Among those signing the letter are several contract research organizations and a trade group representing biotechs.
This article is exclusive to STAT+ subscribers
Unlock this article — plus in-depth analysis, newsletters, premium events, and networking platform access.
Already have an account? Log in
Already have an account? Log in
About the Author Reprints
To submit a correction request, please visit our Contact Us page.
STAT encourages you to share your voice. We welcome your commentary, criticism, and expertise on our subscriber-only platform, STAT+ Connect