Animal Facility

MISSION 
The Mission of the Animal Facility pursues the implementation of pre-clinical translational research activities in the oncological field, implementing an animal experimentation conducted in an ethical manner, using suitable methodologies to obtain scientifically valid and reproducible results. 

The conception, construction and operation of the structure were carried out with the aim of guaranteeing the best conditions for housing and the activities of using animal models in compliance with the protection of the health and welfare of the same, to promote good scientific practice, in compliance with current legislation (Legislative Decree 26/2014).  

To carry out animal testing, operators must receive specific training with theoretical and practical courses and obtain authorization from the Body in charge of Animal Welfare (OPBA). This body has the purpose of supporting the scientific activity of researchers by allowing them to carry out "in vivo" research in compliance with current legislation, according to the international standards of "Good Laboratory Practice" and in complete compliance with the principle of the 3Rs: Replacement, Reduction and Refinement. Therefore animal experimentation will be possible when i) a method that excludes the use of animals is not available (replacement), ii) the smallest number of animals is used such as to guarantee a scientifically valid result (reduction) and iii) all the most innovative procedures aimed at guaranteeing animal welfare and preventing pain and distress in animal maintenance and handling procedures (refinement). 

The animal facility is also accredited for the breeding of genetically modified animals with a non-suffering phenotype. 

 
Organization 
Ssd Stabulario is an Animal Facility included in the Department of Experimental Oncology. 

Research areas: 
- Immunology 

- Pharmacology 

- Microenvironment 

- Microbiota 

- Metabolism and cancer 

 
Research activities 
The research activity consists in providing support to the Foundation's preclinical and clinical staff interested in identifying and studying new biological mechanisms and targets. Through a study path that starts from the identification of new metabolic or signaling pathways, leads to the definition of the mechanisms of action underlying the specific tumor pathology and ends with the development and validation of new drugs. 

 
Interactions: 
- Offices and Structures in Staff to the Scientific Dir. 
- Structures and Department of the Foundation 
- National and international Universities 
- ATS of Milan 
- Ministry of Health