In unprecedented move, giant monkey research center may become a primate sanctuary: University votes to consider ending all studies at Oregon National Primate Research Center. But cost and feasibility are still in doubt.

The article discusses the potential transformation of the Oregon National Primate Research Center (ONPRC) into a sanctuary, a move initiated by the board of directors of Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) in response to growing animal advocacy pressures and financial concerns. This change could significantly impact biomedical research, as ONPRC is one of the largest centers in the U.S., housing nearly 5,000 nonhuman primates used in various studies. While animal advocacy groups support the sanctuary proposal, many researchers express concern over the loss of vital resources for scientific research and the high costs associated with such a transition, estimated between $220 million and $291 million. The article highlights the ongoing debate between animal welfare and the needs of biomedical research, emphasizing the complexities involved in any potential changes to ONPRC's operations. [Extracted from the article]