All scientific research using living subjects must be approved by ethics committees in the respective fields. Neuroscience research employs many animals, especially rodents and primates. Dr. Bruno's lab uses rats, and stresses the humane and ethical treatment of laboratory animals. Animal rights activists such as PETA campaign fiercely for an end to animal research.  However their passion is misplaced. Most of the major medical discoveries and treatments in the 20th century relied on animals for development, and one of their family members has most likely been saved through applications of animal research.  Today, millions of animals are used as test subjects in toxicology labs studying the short and long term effects of drugs in FDA preclinical trials. The animals are humanely sacrificed so humankind may have a better quality of life, and ultimately move towards conquering disease and suffering.