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Debate on OHSU Primate Research Center

May 28, 2025

Notes on Nonprofit Pressure on OHSU's Primate Research Center

Overview

  • Recent advertisements on TV and social media urge the closure of the Oregon National Primate Center in Hillsboro.
  • The campaign is led by Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM), a Washington D.C.-based nonprofit.

Key Players

  • Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU)
    • Operates the Oregon National Primate Research Center.
    • Defends its research practices, stating adherence to state and federal guidelines.
  • Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM)
    • Advocates for the closure of the research center.
    • Comprises physicians, dieticians, and scientists supporting alternative research methods that do not involve animals.

Main Arguments

  • PCRM's Position
    • Urges shutdown before OHSU's merger with Legacy Health.
    • Criticizes animal testing as outdated and pushes for human-based research.
    • Dr. Neal Barnard, founder, emphasizes ethical and applicable research without animals.
    • Circulates a petition for the facility’s closure.
  • OHSU's Defense
    • Argues that animal research is crucial for medical advancements.
    • Lists contributions of animal research to important medical breakthroughs (e.g., vaccines for COVID-19, polio, and smallpox).
    • Provides public tours and shares inspection reports online to promote transparency.

Impact and Implications

  • Public Perception
    • Advertisements question OHSU's capacity for care, affecting its reputation.
  • Future of Research
    • OHSU acknowledges future potential in non-animal research but describes it as a long-term goal.

Conclusion

  • Ongoing debate about ethical research practices and the future of animal testing in scientific research.

References