Tools commonly used in the Animals-Laboratory Use industry for day-to-day tasks and operations.

• Animal cages and housing units
• Anesthesia machines
• Surgical instruments
• Microscopes
• Animal feed and water dispensers
• Animal identification systems (e.g. ear tags, microchips)
• Laboratory equipment (e.g. centrifuges, spectrophotometers)
• Animal handling and restraint equipment (e.g. gloves, masks, nets)
• Environmental control systems (e.g. temperature and humidity monitors)
• Animal waste disposal systems

Common products and services typical of NAICS Code 112990-04, illustrating the main business activities and contributions to the market.

• Laboratory mice
• Rats
• Guinea pigs
• Rabbits
• Hamsters
• Non-human primates
• Dogs
• Cats (excluding those used in research for cosmetic products)
• Fish
• Birds

The specific certifications, permits, licenses, and regulatory compliance requirements within the United States for this industry.

• Animal Welfare Act (AWA): The AWA is a federal law that regulates the treatment of animals in research, exhibition, transport, and by dealers. It is enforced by the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS).
• Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) Approval: IACUC is a committee that reviews and approves animal research protocols to ensure that they comply with the AWA and other regulations. It is required by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and other funding agencies.
• Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) Certification: GLP is a set of standards for conducting nonclinical laboratory studies that are used to support research or marketing permits for products regulated by the FDA. It is required by the FDA for safety and efficacy testing of drugs, biologics, and medical devices.
• Association for Assessment and Accreditation Of Laboratory Animal Care (AAALAC) Accreditation: AAALAC is a private, nonprofit organization that promotes the humane treatment of animals in science through voluntary accreditation and assessment programs. It is recognized by NIH and other funding agencies as a standard for animal care and use programs.
• United States Department Of Agriculture (USDA) Animal Welfare Inspection: USDA APHIS conducts inspections of animal research facilities to ensure compliance with the AWA and other regulations. It is required by law for facilities that use animals in research, exhibition, or transport.

A concise historical narrative of NAICS Code 112990-04 covering global milestones and recent developments within the United States.

• The use of animals in laboratory research dates back to ancient Greece, where Aristotle and his followers conducted experiments on living animals. In the 19th century, the use of animals in research became more widespread, with the development of anesthesia and antiseptics. In the 20th century, the use of animals in research continued to grow, with the development of new technologies and the increasing demand for medical research. In the United States, the use of animals in research is regulated by the Animal Welfare Act, which was passed in 1966 and amended in 1970, 1976, and 1985. The act requires that research facilities provide adequate veterinary care and housing for animals used in research, and that researchers use the minimum number of animals necessary to achieve their research goals. Recent history of the industry in the United States has been marked by increased scrutiny and regulation. In 2015, the National Institutes of Health announced that it would no longer fund research on chimpanzees, except in cases where it was necessary for human health. In 2016, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service listed all chimpanzees as endangered, which made it more difficult to use them in research. In 2019, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced that it would no longer regulate the treatment of birds, mice, and rats in research, which drew criticism from animal rights groups. Despite these challenges, the use of animals in research continues to be an important part of medical research in the United States.

The anticipated future trajectory of the NAICS 112990-04 industry in the USA, offering insights into potential trends, innovations, and challenges expected to shape its landscape.

• Growth Prediction: Stable

  According to a report by ResearchAndMarkets.com, the global laboratory animal models market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.1% from 2020 to 2027. The increasing demand for personalized medicine, rising prevalence of chronic diseases, and growing focus on R&D activities are some of the factors driving the growth of the market. In the USA, the increasing adoption of animal models in drug discovery and development is expected to drive the growth of the Animals-Laboratory Use industry. However, the increasing concerns regarding animal welfare and the availability of alternative methods are some of the factors that may hinder the growth of the industry. Overall, the industry is expected to experience steady growth in the coming years.

Recent groundbreaking advancements and milestones in the Animals-Laboratory Use industry, reflecting notable innovations that have reshaped its landscape.

• CRISPR Gene Editing Technology: This technology has revolutionized the creation of genetically modified animal models, allowing for more precise and efficient gene editing.
• 3D Printing Of Organs and Tissues: This innovation has the potential to reduce the use of live animals in research by allowing for the creation of realistic models of organs and tissues.
• Humanized Mice: These are mice that have been genetically modified to have a human immune system, allowing for more accurate testing of drugs and vaccines.
• Non-Invasive Imaging Techniques: The development of non-invasive imaging techniques such as MRI and PET scans has reduced the need for invasive procedures on animals in research.
• Organ-On-A-Chip Technology: This technology involves the creation of microfluidic devices that mimic the structure and function of human organs, allowing for more accurate testing of drugs and reducing the need for animal testing.

This section provides an extensive list of essential materials, equipment and services that are integral to the daily operations and success of the Animals-Laboratory Use industry. It highlights the primary inputs that Animals-Laboratory Use professionals rely on to perform their core tasks effectively, offering a valuable resource for understanding the critical components that drive industry activities.

Equipment

Anesthesia Machines: Devices used to administer anesthetic agents to laboratory animals, crucial for conducting surgical procedures and ensuring the animals remain pain-free during experiments.

Animal Cages: Specialized enclosures designed to house laboratory animals securely, ensuring their safety and comfort while allowing for easy observation and access during experiments.

Incubators: Controlled environments used to maintain optimal conditions for the growth and development of laboratory animals, particularly for breeding and research purposes.

Monitoring Equipment: Devices such as heart rate monitors and temperature sensors that track the physiological parameters of laboratory animals, providing critical data during experiments.

Restraint Devices: Tools designed to safely restrain laboratory animals during procedures, minimizing stress and ensuring the safety of both the animals and the researchers.

Surgical Instruments: Precision tools such as scalpels and forceps used during surgical procedures on laboratory animals, essential for conducting research safely and effectively.

Material

Bedding Materials: Absorbent materials used in animal cages to provide comfort and hygiene, crucial for maintaining a clean environment and reducing stress in laboratory animals.

Biological Samples: Samples collected from laboratory animals, such as blood or tissue, used for various research purposes, including drug testing and disease studies.

Genetic Material: DNA or other genetic samples used in research to study heredity, disease, and other biological processes, essential for advancing scientific knowledge.

Laboratory Animal Feed: Nutritionally balanced feed specifically formulated for laboratory animals, essential for maintaining their health and well-being during research studies.

Vaccines and Pharmaceuticals: Medicines used to prevent or treat diseases in laboratory animals, essential for maintaining their health and ensuring the validity of research outcomes.

Service

Ethical Review Services: Services that provide oversight and ensure compliance with ethical standards in the treatment of laboratory animals, crucial for maintaining research integrity.

Training Services: Professional training for staff on the proper handling and care of laboratory animals, ensuring compliance with regulations and promoting animal welfare.

Veterinary Care Services: Professional services provided by veterinarians to ensure the health and welfare of laboratory animals, including routine check-ups and emergency care.

Waste Disposal Services: Services that manage the disposal of biological waste generated during research, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.

Explore a detailed compilation of the unique products and services offered by the Animals-Laboratory Use industry. This section provides precise examples of how each item is utilized, showcasing the diverse capabilities and contributions of the Animals-Laboratory Use to its clients and markets. This section provides an extensive list of essential materials, equipment and services that are integral to the daily operations and success of the Animals-Laboratory Use industry. It highlights the primary inputs that Animals-Laboratory Use professionals rely on to perform their core tasks effectively, offering a valuable resource for understanding the critical components that drive industry activities.

Material

Guinea Pigs: These animals are frequently used in research due to their unique physiological traits. They serve as important models for studying respiratory diseases and are often involved in vaccine testing, providing critical data for the development of new medical treatments.

Laboratory Mice: These small rodents are bred specifically for research purposes, providing a controlled environment for studying genetics, disease, and drug efficacy. They are commonly used in various medical and pharmaceutical studies to test new treatments and understand biological processes.

Non-Human Primates: These animals are essential for research in neuroscience, psychology, and pharmacology. Their genetic and behavioral similarities to humans make them crucial for studying complex diseases and testing new therapies, particularly in the fields of mental health and infectious diseases.

Rabbit Models: Rabbits are often used in immunology and toxicology studies due to their size and reproductive capabilities. They provide valuable insights into the immune response and are commonly used in the development of vaccines and therapeutic agents.

Rats: Rats are another key species utilized in laboratory settings, known for their complex behavior and physiology. They are often used in behavioral studies, toxicology tests, and to model human diseases, making them invaluable for advancing medical research.

Zebrafish: Zebrafish are increasingly popular in laboratory research due to their transparent embryos and rapid development. They are used in genetic studies, drug discovery, and developmental biology, allowing researchers to observe biological processes in real-time.

Equipment

Animal Housing Systems: These specialized enclosures are designed to provide a safe and controlled environment for laboratory animals. They ensure proper ventilation, temperature control, and sanitation, which are critical for maintaining animal health and research integrity.

Surgical Instruments: A variety of surgical tools are utilized in laboratory settings for procedures involving animals. These instruments are essential for conducting surgeries, biopsies, and other medical interventions, ensuring precision and safety during research.

Service

Animal Care Services: This service encompasses the daily care and management of laboratory animals, including feeding, cleaning, and health monitoring. It is vital for maintaining the well-being of the animals and ensuring compliance with ethical standards in research.

Research Consultation Services: Offering expertise in experimental design and regulatory compliance, this service assists researchers in planning and conducting studies involving laboratory animals. It helps ensure that research is conducted ethically and efficiently, maximizing the validity of results.

A thorough examination of the Animals-Laboratory Use industry’s external dynamics, focusing on the political, economic, social, technological, legal, and environmental factors that shape its operations and strategic direction.

Political Factors

Economic Factors

Social Factors

Technological Factors

Legal Factors

Economical Factors

An in-depth look at the Animals-Laboratory Use industry's value chain, highlighting its role, key activities, and efficiency strategies, along with its unique value drivers and competitive strengths.

Value Chain Position

Category: Service Provider
Value Stage: Final
Description: The Animals-Laboratory Use industry functions primarily as a service provider, focusing on the breeding, raising, and selling of animals specifically for scientific research and experimentation. This industry ensures that the animals meet the necessary ethical and regulatory standards required for research purposes.

Upstream Industries

Downstream Industries

Primary Activities

Inbound Logistics: Receiving and handling processes involve the careful selection and acquisition of animals from breeders, ensuring they meet specific health and genetic criteria. Storage practices include maintaining appropriate living conditions for the animals, with strict inventory management to monitor health and breeding cycles. Quality control measures are implemented to ensure that all incoming animals are healthy and suitable for research, addressing challenges such as disease outbreaks through rigorous health screening protocols.

Operations: Core processes include breeding, raising, and maintaining laboratory animals under controlled conditions. Quality management practices involve regular health assessments, adherence to ethical standards, and compliance with regulatory requirements. Industry-standard procedures include maintaining detailed records of animal health, breeding history, and research usage to ensure traceability and accountability.

Outbound Logistics: Distribution methods involve coordinating the transfer of animals to research facilities, ensuring that transportation conditions meet welfare standards. Common practices include using specialized transport containers that maintain appropriate environmental conditions to preserve the health and well-being of the animals during transit.

Marketing & Sales: Marketing approaches often include direct engagement with research institutions and pharmaceutical companies, highlighting the quality and ethical standards of the animals provided. Customer relationship practices focus on building long-term partnerships through consistent communication and responsiveness to research needs. Sales processes typically involve formal agreements that outline the terms of supply and compliance with regulatory standards.

Support Activities

Infrastructure: Management systems in the industry include compliance tracking systems that ensure adherence to ethical guidelines and regulatory requirements. Organizational structures often consist of specialized teams responsible for animal care, breeding, and research compliance, facilitating efficient operations. Planning systems are crucial for scheduling breeding cycles and managing animal health assessments effectively.

Human Resource Management: Workforce requirements include skilled personnel trained in animal husbandry, veterinary care, and research compliance. Development approaches may involve ongoing training programs to keep staff updated on best practices in animal care and ethical research standards. Industry-specific skills include knowledge of animal behavior, genetics, and regulatory compliance.

Technology Development: Key technologies used include advanced breeding techniques and health monitoring systems that enhance animal welfare and research outcomes. Innovation practices focus on developing new methods for animal care and breeding that improve the quality and reliability of research. Industry-standard systems often involve data management tools for tracking animal health and research usage.

Procurement: Sourcing strategies involve establishing relationships with reputable breeders and suppliers to ensure a consistent supply of high-quality laboratory animals. Supplier relationship management is critical for maintaining quality and compliance, while purchasing practices emphasize ethical sourcing and adherence to regulatory standards.

Value Chain Efficiency

Process Efficiency: Operational effectiveness is measured through the health and quality of the animals provided for research, with common efficiency measures including breeding success rates and health outcomes. Industry benchmarks are established based on compliance with ethical standards and the quality of research results produced using the animals.

Integration Efficiency: Coordination methods involve regular communication between animal suppliers, research institutions, and regulatory bodies to ensure alignment on standards and expectations. Communication systems often include digital platforms for real-time updates on animal health and availability, facilitating efficient operations.

Resource Utilization: Resource management practices focus on optimizing animal care and breeding processes to minimize waste and ensure the well-being of the animals. Optimization approaches may involve implementing best practices in animal husbandry and health monitoring, adhering to industry standards for ethical treatment and research compliance.

Value Chain Summary

Key Value Drivers: Primary sources of value creation include the health and genetic quality of laboratory animals, adherence to ethical standards, and strong relationships with research institutions. Critical success factors involve maintaining compliance with regulations and ensuring the reliability of research outcomes.

Competitive Position: Sources of competitive advantage include the ability to provide high-quality, ethically sourced laboratory animals and establish trusted relationships with research clients. Industry positioning is influenced by regulatory compliance and the reputation for quality, impacting market dynamics.

Challenges & Opportunities: Current industry challenges include navigating complex regulatory environments, ensuring animal welfare, and managing public perception of animal research. Future trends may involve increased demand for alternative research methods and technologies, presenting opportunities for innovation and adaptation within the industry.

A focused SWOT analysis that examines the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats facing the Animals-Laboratory Use industry within the US market. This section provides insights into current conditions, strategic interactions, and future growth potential.

Strengths

Industry Infrastructure and Resources: The industry benefits from a robust infrastructure that includes specialized breeding facilities, research laboratories, and transportation networks tailored for the safe handling of laboratory animals. This strong infrastructure supports compliance with regulatory standards and enhances operational efficiency, ensuring that facilities are equipped to meet the demands of scientific research.

Technological Capabilities: The industry possesses significant technological advantages, including advanced breeding techniques and genetic engineering capabilities that enhance the quality and reliability of laboratory animals. Companies often hold patents for unique breeding methods and technologies, which contribute to innovation and maintain a competitive edge in research applications.

Market Position: The industry holds a strong position within the biomedical research sector, characterized by a stable demand for laboratory animals used in drug development and safety testing. Established relationships with pharmaceutical and research institutions bolster its competitive strength, although it faces pressure from alternative research methods such as in vitro testing.

Financial Health: Financial performance across the industry is generally strong, with many companies reporting steady revenue growth driven by consistent demand for laboratory animals. The financial health is supported by long-term contracts with research institutions, although fluctuations in regulatory compliance costs can impact profitability.

Supply Chain Advantages: The industry enjoys well-established supply chain networks that facilitate the procurement of high-quality breeding stock and the distribution of laboratory animals to research facilities. Strong relationships with suppliers and logistics providers enhance operational efficiency, ensuring timely delivery and compliance with animal welfare standards.

Workforce Expertise: The labor force in this industry is highly skilled, comprising professionals with specialized training in animal husbandry, veterinary science, and laboratory management. This expertise is crucial for maintaining high standards of animal care and ensuring compliance with ethical guidelines, although ongoing training is necessary to keep pace with evolving research needs.

Weaknesses

Structural Inefficiencies: Some companies face structural inefficiencies due to outdated facilities or inadequate operational processes, leading to increased costs and reduced competitiveness. These inefficiencies can hinder the ability to meet the growing demands of research institutions, particularly as the industry evolves.

Cost Structures: The industry grapples with rising costs associated with animal care, facility maintenance, and compliance with stringent regulations. These cost pressures can squeeze profit margins, necessitating careful management of pricing strategies and operational efficiencies to remain competitive.

Technology Gaps: While some companies are technologically advanced, others lag in adopting new breeding and management technologies. This gap can result in lower productivity and higher operational costs, impacting overall competitiveness in the market.

Resource Limitations: The industry is vulnerable to fluctuations in the availability of specific animal breeds due to breeding cycles and regulatory restrictions. These resource limitations can disrupt production schedules and impact the availability of laboratory animals for research.

Regulatory Compliance Issues: Navigating the complex landscape of animal welfare regulations poses challenges for many companies. Compliance costs can be significant, and failure to meet regulatory standards can lead to penalties and reputational damage, impacting operational stability.

Market Access Barriers: Entering new markets can be challenging due to established competition and regulatory hurdles. Companies may face difficulties in gaining approval for animal use in research or meeting local regulatory requirements, limiting growth opportunities.

Opportunities

Market Growth Potential: There is significant potential for market growth driven by increasing investment in biomedical research and the development of new therapies. The trend towards personalized medicine and advanced therapies presents opportunities for companies to expand their offerings and capture new market segments.

Emerging Technologies: Advancements in genetic engineering and biotechnology offer opportunities for enhancing the quality and efficiency of laboratory animal production. These technologies can lead to improved animal models that better mimic human diseases, increasing their value in research.

Economic Trends: Favorable economic conditions, including increased funding for research and development, support growth in the laboratory animal market. As governments and private sectors prioritize health and medical advancements, demand for laboratory animals is expected to rise.

Regulatory Changes: Potential regulatory changes aimed at promoting humane treatment and welfare of laboratory animals could benefit the industry. Companies that adapt to these changes by enhancing animal care practices may gain a competitive edge and improve their market reputation.

Consumer Behavior Shifts: Shifts in consumer preferences towards ethical research practices create opportunities for growth. Companies that align their operations with these trends can attract a broader customer base and enhance brand loyalty, particularly among institutions focused on ethical standards.

Threats

Competitive Pressures: Intense competition from both domestic and international players poses a significant threat to market share. Companies must continuously innovate and differentiate their offerings to maintain a competitive edge in a crowded marketplace.

Economic Uncertainties: Economic fluctuations, including changes in research funding and budget constraints, can impact demand for laboratory animals. Companies must remain agile to adapt to these uncertainties and mitigate potential impacts on sales.

Regulatory Challenges: The potential for stricter regulations regarding animal welfare and research practices can pose challenges for the industry. Companies must invest in compliance measures to avoid penalties and ensure operational continuity.

Technological Disruption: Emerging technologies in alternative research methods, such as organ-on-a-chip models, could disrupt the market for laboratory animals. Companies need to monitor these trends closely and innovate to stay relevant.

Environmental Concerns: Increasing scrutiny on environmental sustainability practices poses challenges for the industry. Companies must adopt sustainable practices to meet consumer expectations and regulatory requirements, particularly regarding waste management and resource use.

SWOT Summary

Strategic Position: The industry currently enjoys a strong market position, bolstered by robust demand for laboratory animals in biomedical research. However, challenges such as rising costs and competitive pressures necessitate strategic innovation and adaptation to maintain growth. The future trajectory appears promising, with opportunities for expansion into new research areas and technologies, provided that companies can navigate the complexities of regulatory compliance and ethical standards.

Key Interactions

Growth Potential: The growth prospects for the industry are robust, driven by increasing investment in biomedical research and advancements in technology. Key growth drivers include the rising demand for innovative therapies, regulatory support for ethical research practices, and the expansion of research institutions. Market expansion opportunities exist in both domestic and international markets, particularly as the focus on personalized medicine grows. However, challenges such as regulatory compliance and resource limitations must be addressed to fully realize this potential. The timeline for growth realization is projected over the next five to ten years, contingent on successful adaptation to market trends and consumer preferences.

Risk Assessment: The overall risk level for the industry is moderate, with key risk factors including economic uncertainties, competitive pressures, and supply chain vulnerabilities. Industry players must be vigilant in monitoring external threats, such as changes in regulatory landscapes and consumer preferences. Effective risk management strategies, including diversification of suppliers and investment in technology, can mitigate potential impacts. Long-term risk management approaches should focus on sustainability and adaptability to changing market conditions. The timeline for risk evolution is ongoing, necessitating proactive measures to safeguard against emerging threats.

Strategic Recommendations

An exploration of how geographic and site-specific factors impact the operations of the Animals-Laboratory Use industry in the US, focusing on location, topography, climate, vegetation, zoning, infrastructure, and cultural context.

Location: Operations are concentrated in regions with strong research institutions, such as Massachusetts and California, where proximity to universities and biotech firms enhances collaboration. These areas provide access to a skilled workforce and funding opportunities, facilitating the breeding and selling of laboratory animals. Additionally, locations near major transportation hubs are advantageous for the distribution of animals to research facilities across the country, ensuring timely delivery and compliance with regulatory standards.

Topography: Facilities require flat, accessible land to accommodate specialized housing for laboratory animals and associated research infrastructure. Urban areas with existing industrial zones are often preferred to minimize land acquisition costs and facilitate logistics. However, regions with challenging terrain may necessitate additional investment in site preparation and infrastructure development, impacting operational efficiency and costs.

Climate: Moderate climates are ideal for maintaining stable conditions within animal housing facilities, as extreme temperatures can affect animal health and research outcomes. Regions with consistent weather patterns allow for better control of environmental conditions, which is crucial for breeding and maintaining laboratory animals. Seasonal variations may require additional climate control measures to ensure optimal living conditions year-round, impacting operational costs and facility design.

Vegetation: The presence of natural vegetation can influence the design of facilities, as buffer zones may be required to minimize environmental impact. Compliance with local environmental regulations necessitates careful management of surrounding ecosystems to prevent disruption to local wildlife. Facilities often implement vegetation management practices to maintain a safe and clean environment for laboratory animals, ensuring that landscaping does not attract pests or pose health risks.

Zoning and Land Use: Operations typically require specific zoning classifications that allow for animal breeding and research activities. Local land use regulations may impose restrictions on the types of animals that can be housed and the scale of operations. Facilities must secure various permits, including those related to animal welfare and environmental impact, which can vary significantly by region, affecting operational timelines and costs.

Infrastructure: Critical infrastructure includes specialized facilities for animal housing, veterinary care, and research laboratories, all requiring reliable utilities such as water, electricity, and waste management systems. Transportation infrastructure is essential for the timely delivery of animals to research institutions, necessitating proximity to major highways and airports. Communication systems must support data management and regulatory compliance, ensuring that all operations are documented and traceable.

Cultural and Historical: Community perceptions of laboratory animal use can vary, with some regions exhibiting strong support for research initiatives due to their economic benefits and contributions to medical advancements. However, public concerns about animal welfare may lead to opposition in certain areas, necessitating outreach and education efforts by facilities to foster understanding and acceptance. Historical ties to research institutions can enhance local support, as communities recognize the long-term benefits of scientific research.

A detailed overview of the Animals-Laboratory Use industry’s market dynamics, competitive landscape, and operational conditions, highlighting the unique factors influencing its day-to-day activities.

Market Overview

Market Size: Medium

Description: This industry encompasses the breeding, raising, and selling of animals specifically for scientific research and experimentation. Operations include the management of breeding programs, animal care, and compliance with ethical standards for animal treatment.

Market Stage: Growth. The industry is experiencing growth due to increasing demand for laboratory animals in medical and pharmaceutical research, driven by advancements in biotechnology and the need for safety testing of new products.

Geographic Distribution: National. Facilities are distributed across the United States, with concentrations near major research institutions and pharmaceutical hubs, allowing for efficient collaboration and transportation of animals.

Characteristics

Market Structure

Market Concentration: Fragmented. The industry consists of a variety of operators, from small specialized breeders to larger commercial facilities, resulting in a diverse competitive landscape.

Segments

Distribution Channels

Success Factors

Demand Analysis

Demand Drivers

Competitive Landscape

Entry Barriers

Business Models

Operating Environment