Table 1.

Value summary for assessing the translational relevance of an animal model in a structured framework.

Potential values for a structured assessment of the human translational relevance of an animal model

Guide for an investigator with limited in vivo modeling experience Prompt for multi-disciplinary partnership in assessment of a model and development of a study design Transparent representation of translational strengths and weaknesses of an animal model Opportunity to mitigate weaknesses through alternative modeling approaches or filling knowledge gaps Quality context for evidence derived from the model to inform decision-makers Support harm–benefit analysis by an institutional ethical review committee