As reported by Technische Universität Berlin, scientists at TU Berlin have succeeded in producing a model of the liver from human cells using 3D bioprinting without having to resort to materials of any animal origin. Up to now, in vitro research has often relied on fetal calf serum (FCS) as culture medium and laminins or collagens from mice.

This year's laboratory animal of the year is the pig. The Federal Association of People for Animal Rights reports on the various areas in which pigs are used and highlights approaches that could replace or at least reduce animal testing.

The state animal welfare officers with expertise in the field of animal testing and alternatives have established a working group to develop key points for reducing animal testing and switching to animal-free research technologies.

Professor Dr. Peter Loskill and Dr. Silke Riegger from the University of Tübingen have been awarded this year's Ursula M. Händel Animal Welfare Prize by the German Research Foundation (DFG). According to the jury, with their development, application and dissemination of organ-on-chip systems, they are contributing significantly to replacing animal models with suitable alternatives.