Animal models play an irreplaceable role in the field of biotechnology, and the first animal in history to be used for biological experiments marks the beginning of modern biomedical research. This is not only a great contribution to the biological sciences, but also a leap forward in humanity's understanding of the natural world.
In the 17th century, biologists began to use animals as objects of study to explore the mysteries of life. The first experimental animals included frogs and other small mammals, which played a key role in the study of anatomy and physiology. Frogs were the first choice for early biological experiments because of their unique biological characteristics – ease of rearing, short life cycle, and pronounced reproductive cycle.
Through the study of these early experimental animals, scientists have revealed how the circulatory system works, the electrophysiological properties of neuromuscles, and many fundamental genetic laws. For example, in 1628, the Italian physician William Harvey demonstrated the circulation of blood in the body using a variety of animal models, a discovery that revolutionized the understanding of human physiology.
With the passage of time, scientists have gradually expanded the scope of experimental animals, including mice, rats, fruit flies, etc., and have made outstanding contributions in genetics, pharmacology, pathology and other fields. Mice have become an important model for genetic research, especially in the discovery of the DNA double helix structure and the implementation of gene knockout experiments.
Today, the application of laboratory animals has penetrated into all fields of biotechnology, from basic scientific research to drug development, disease model construction and even the best strategies for human diseases. Through the study of these animals, scientists are not only able to reveal the basic laws of life processes, but also to develop new methods for major diseases.
The use of animals for scientific research comes with ethical and responsible considerations. With the development of science and technology and the progress of society, the research and application of alternative methods have received increasing attention. Still, animal models will remain an integral part of biomedical research for the foreseeable future.
This article provides an overview of the historical and scientific significance of using animals for biological experiments, as well as the contributions of these experiments to the development of modern biological sciences. For students and experts working in biotechnology and biological experiments, understanding this historical context will not only help us better understand the role of laboratory animals in scientific research, but also lead us to be more ethical and responsible in future research.