Two and a half decades of impact: contributions of the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research Laboratory Animal Facility to biomedical research in Ghana and the West African sub-region

NMIMR’s Laboratory Animal Facility: advancing research in West Africa

Abstract

Background: Laboratory animal facilities are essential enablers of biomedical research, supporting disease modelling, drug evaluation, and safety studies. The Laboratory Animal Facility (LAF) at the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR), established in 2000 with Japanese support, has become a cornerstone of biomedical research in Ghana and West Africa.
Objective: This study documents the LAF’s operations and contributions over 25 years, highlighting its role in disease research, medicinal plant studies, training, and ethical compliance.
Methods: A retrospective review of LAF records, training logs, publications, and collaborations (2000 – 2025) was conducted. Data were summarised using descriptive statistics, with research models and training outputs organised thematically.
Results: The LAF produced over 20,000 Specific Pathogen Free (SPF) rodents, supporting >75 ethically approved projects in communicableand non-communicable disease research. It trained >170 researchers in animal science and contributed to >500 peer-reviewed publications.
Key disease models developed included Buruli ulcer, malaria, diabetes, epilepsy, benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH), and wound healing. The facility’s output is regionally significant, with 60% of supported projects involving international collaborations. Continuous upgrades have enhanced biosafety and welfare standards, as well as ISO/IEC 17025:2017-aligned operations.
Conclusion: The LAF has strengthened regional research capacity through good-quality animal models, training, and ethical oversight. Sustained investment in infrastructure, molecular characterisation of strains, and partnerships will expand its role in translational research and innovation.