RESUMO
Experimental research with animals is very important for humanity, as it contributes to discovering new strategies for preventing and treating diseases, developing new surgical techniques, medicines and foods, preceding the final tests that are carried out on the human population. Animal experimentation is fundamental to the advancement of scientific research, as it contributes directly to the development of science and technology. Their contribution helps in the discovery of preventive measures and new treatments for numerous diseases that affect living beings. Examples of scientific contributions through animal studies include the development of vaccines and the production of serums. To establish the protective capacity of serums against the lethal effect of a toxin, potency tests were performed on Swiss mice. This methodology is carried out in the Biological Quality Control routine to release batches of serum produced by the Butantan Institute. The objective of this dissertation is to carry out a critical analysis of the importance and challenges of the use of animals in research.