From policy to practice: How Labcorp’s new approach methods align with the U.K.’s new safety testing strategy

The U.K. government recently unveiled an ambitious road map to accelerate the phase-out of animal testing in scientific research, marking a significant milestone for sustainable, innovative science. This strategy, backed by 75 million pounds ($101 million) in funding, aims to replace animal tests with cutting-edge technologies that deliver reliable safety assessments without compromising human health or environmental protection. At Labcorp, we welcome this commitment to advancing alternative methods to animal testing. It’s a vision we share, and one we’ve been actively working toward for years.

Innovative technologies shaping the future of safety testing

The U.K. government's plan focuses on methods that can replicate biological systems with precision, ensuring regulatory confidence while reducing reliance on animals. These include:

• Organ-on-a-chip systems: Miniaturized devices that mimic human organ functions using real human cells, enabling more accurate predictions of drug safety and efficacy
• Artificial intelligence (AI) modeling: Advanced algorithms that analyze vast molecular datasets to forecast toxicity and therapeutic potential, reducing the need for live testing
• 3D bioprinted tissues: Engineered human tissue models that provide lifelike environments to study biological responses and assess chemical safety

“Labcorp strongly supports the U.K.’s Alternatives to Animals in Science Strategy, recognizing its vital role in accelerating the adoption of non-animal technologies through targeted investment and clear action,” says Dr. John Kendrick, executive director of new approach methods and emerging technologies at Labcorp. “This strategy complements Labcorp’s ongoing U.K. and global efforts to advance innovative safety testing methods across pharmaceutical, chemical and environmental sectors.”

Our commitment to advancing non-animal testing

Regulatory confidence is key when it comes to adopting new methodologies in safety testing. That’s why we’ve invested heavily in developing and validating new approach methodologies (NAMs) that meet the highest scientific standards. NAMs at Labcorp include a diverse range of technologies, from organ-on-a-chip microphysiological systems and in vitro assays to computational modeling and in silico studies. These tools can partially or completely replace animal testing in some circumstances where the methods are scientifically robust and reproducible, while improving predictivity, translatability and efficiency. By optimizing trial design with these approaches, we help clients streamline submissions, reduce costs and accelerate timelines, all while supporting the principles of the 3Rs: replace, reduce and refine.

Driving global change in regulatory science

We are proud to be part of a global collaborative effort that brings together government, industry and animal welfare organizations to drive innovation in clinical research—whether it’s leading councils that set global welfare standards or establishing recognition programs that empower employees to find new ways to improve animal welfare and research outcomes. Learn how our new approach methods and corporate culture of care can help support your development goals while advancing animal welfare in scientific research.