How new approach methods are reshaping virology research

Animal models are a cornerstone of basic and translational virology research, widely used to study viral pathogenesis and evaluate vaccines and therapeutics. However, growing ethical and scientific concerns, alongside recent National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) initiatives, are accelerating a shift toward non-animal, human-relevant alternatives. Advanced cell- and tissue-based systems now offer powerful platforms to model human disease. This Gem outlines emerging tools and highlights their promise for virology research in a rapidly evolving regulatory and technological landscape.