The new alternative to animal testing: small, glass chips!

One of CNN's latest technology articles has given me some hope on the exploitation of animals when it comes to cosmetics testing. Of course, the article focuses on Europe making progressive moves in the realm of animal rights, rather than, of course, the good 'ole U.S.

The article states that a European ban is "looming on animal testing for cosmetics companies," and goes on to illuminate the latest in technology advances- amazingly, on the animals' behalf.

Introducing the new alternative: a small, rectangular glass chip. I almost jumped out of my chair in disbelief that this world is finally moving away from testing on living, breathing beings.

The article states that, "The chip looks like a standard microscope slide, but it holds hundreds of tiny white dots loaded with human cell cultures and enzymes. It's designed to mimic human reactions to potentially toxic chemical compounds, meaning critters like rats and mice may no longer need to be on the front line of tests for new blockbuster drugs or wrinkle creams."

This is a HUGE step forward on behalf of animal welfare and I am delighted to learn that Europe will consider moving this along at a progressive rate. Now, if we can only get our own shady country on board...

http://www.cnn.com/2008/TECH/science/01/28/animal.testing.ap/index.html