Role of small animal models to advance biological education in developing and underdeveloped countries
Nitish Thapa
Department of Biomedical Engineering, Universiti Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Mohammad Hassan
Mostafa Kamal
Abstract
Model organisms, such as Drosophila, zebrafish, and C. elegans, have been widely used in testing biological hypotheses and investigating the various aspects of human diseases. Compared to vertebrate models such as mouse, these small animal model organisms are relatively easy to handle, easy to culture, and easy to manipulate at molecular and genetic levels. This easy accessibility of model organisms has facilitated biological and medical labs worldwide, including those in developing countries and underdeveloped countries, to leverage these small animal model organisms to replicate human disease models and investigate the mechanisms of action or prevention strategies. Another key benefit of using small animal models is their cost-effectiveness and the associated cost of culturing them compared to other methods involving vertebrates. In developing and underdeveloped nations, cost is a significant driver for researchers, and scientists frequently encounter challenges related to insufficient funding and limited resources. To further survive in the competitive landscape, researchers also need to focus on health-related topics that are relevant to the local community so that their research is more easily understood and applicable to the growth of the community. For example, Africa faces a disproportionate burden of significant global diseases caused by parasites and insects and could use more resources and scientific knowledge to tackle its health challenges. It is also suggested to link the research funding in Africa with improved compensation for scientists and create a sustainable source of research funding. There should be stronger collaboration between scientists from resource-rich countries and African scientists at the institutional level. These suggestions could positively benefit African researchers by increasing local awareness of their activities and providing opportunities for skill development.
Author Biography
Nitish Thapa, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Universiti Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
