OHSU Defends Oregon Primate Research Center Amid Closure Calls

Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) has publicly defended its Oregon National Primate Research Center amid criticism from animal advocacy groups, including PETA and the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, who argue the facility is cruel and that its funding would be better spent on patient care. OHSU responded that the center's funding comes primarily from federal research grants and philanthropic sources, which are restricted to research use and cannot be diverted to clinical care or other purposes. The university emphasized that animal research at the center is heavily regulated and vital for advancing treatments and cures for diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and various infectious diseases, arguing that current alternatives do not fully replicate the complexity of living systems. Scientists, patients, and advocates also highlighted the center’s critical role in developing therapies for rare diseases, noting that its research leads to breakthroughs that directly benefit human health. OHSU further stated that closing the facility would be costly and is not within its unilateral control, as property and operations are regulated by federal authorities. The institution maintains that it is committed to minimizing animal use, advancing alternative methods, and ensuring humane conditions for research animals.