Global Animal Model Market By Animal Type (Mice, Rat, Guinea Pigs, and Others), By Application (Cancer, Immunological Disease, Infectious Disease, and Others), By End-user (Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology Companies, Academic Research Institute, and Contract Research Organization), Region and Companies – Industry Segment Outlook, Market Assessment, Competition Scenario, Trends and Forecast 2025-2034

Report Overview

Global Animal Model Market size is expected to be worth around US$ 6.6 billion by 2034 from US$ 2.9 billion in 2024, growing at a CAGR of 8.5% during the forecast period 2025 to 2034. In 2024, North America led the market, achieving over 44.8% share with a revenue of US$ 1.3 Billion.

Increasing demand for effective preclinical research and drug development has driven significant growth in the animal model market. As the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries advance, the need for reliable models to simulate human diseases and test therapies has become more critical. Animal models play a vital role in understanding the pathophysiology of diseases, drug toxicity, and efficacy testing.

Recent trends show an increasing preference for genetically modified and humanized animal models, which offer more accurate representations of human diseases. These models contribute to advancements in oncology, immunology, and genetics, among other fields. In May 2023, a research team from University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus successfully developed a humanized mouse model with a mutated gene that leads to congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH).

This breakthrough is expected to offer a significant leap in understanding the disease and may lead to the development of new therapeutic approaches for treatment. The growing emphasis on precision medicine and personalized therapies further drives the demand for sophisticated animal models, presenting substantial opportunities for market expansion.

Key Takeaways

• In 2023, the market for animal model generated a revenue of US$ 2.9 billion, with a CAGR of 8.5%, and is expected to reach US$ 6.6 billion by the year 2033.
• The animal type segment is divided into mice, rat, guinea pigs, and others, with mice taking the lead in 2023 with a market share of 54.3%.
• Considering application, the market is divided into cancer, immunological disease, infectious disease, and others. Among these, cancer held a significant share of 52.7%.
• Furthermore, concerning the end-user segment, the market is segregated into pharmaceutical & biotechnology companies, academic research institute, and contract research organization. The pharmaceutical & biotechnology companies sector stands out as the dominant player, holding the largest revenue share of 57.6% in the animal model market.
• North America led the market by securing a market share of 44.8% in 2023.

Animal Type Analysis

The mice segment led in 2023, claiming a market share of 54.3% owing to the increasing demand for genetically modified mouse models in research. Mice are widely used in preclinical research for their similarities to human biology, their short lifespan, and their ability to replicate various diseases. These factors make mice an essential animal model for studying human diseases, drug testing, and understanding disease mechanisms.

The growth of biotechnology and pharmaceutical research, particularly in areas such as cancer and immunological disease studies, is expected to further drive the demand for mice in laboratory settings. Additionally, advancements in genetic manipulation and their role in personalized medicine are likely to fuel the growth of the mice segment in the coming years.

Application Analysis

The cancer held a significant share of 52.7% due to the increasing prevalence of cancer globally and the demand for effective treatments. Animal models play a crucial role in cancer research, as they are used to study tumor development, metastasis, and response to therapies.

The rising incidence of various cancers and the need for novel therapies is expected to push demand for animal models that can simulate human cancers accurately. The growth of personalized medicine and targeted therapies is projected to further bolster the need for cancer-related animal models, making them vital tools for preclinical drug development and testing.

End-User Analysis

The pharmaceutical & biotechnology companies segment had a tremendous growth rate, with a revenue share of 57.6% owing to the increasing investment in drug discovery and development. Pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies rely heavily on animal models for preclinical testing to ensure the safety and efficacy of new drugs before human trials. As these companies focus on developing treatments for chronic diseases, cancer, and genetic disorders, the demand for animal models is projected to rise.

Additionally, the expansion of research in areas like personalized medicine and gene editing technologies is likely to increase the reliance on animal models for innovation in drug development. This segment is expected to continue growing as pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies seek better solutions for drug testing and disease research.

Key Market Segments

By Animal Type

• Mice
• Rat
• Guinea Pigs
• Others

By Application

• Cancer
• Immunological Disease
• Infectious Disease
• Others

By End-user

• Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology Companies
• Academic Research Institute
• Contract Research Organization

Drivers

Increasing Demand for Personalized Medicine is Driving the Market
The growing focus on precision medicine is significantly driving the need for genetically tailored models in drug development and disease research. Pharmaceutical companies and academic institutions are leveraging advanced models, such as CRISPR-engineered mice, to study patient-specific treatments. These models provide more accurate representations of human biology, which is crucial in developing targeted therapies for conditions such as cancer and genetic disorders.

As biologics and gene therapies increasingly require sophisticated preclinical testing, demand for genetically engineered models continues to rise. The shift towards more personalized treatments amplifies the need for highly specific animal models that can better predict human responses, ensuring sustained growth in this market.

Restraints

High Costs and Ethical Concerns are Restraining the Market
The high cost of maintaining genetically modified colonies and complying with stringent animal welfare regulations significantly restricts market expansion. A single transgenic mouse model can cost upwards of US$5,000, with additional ongoing costs for housing, care, and management. Ethical guidelines, particularly in the EU and other regions, limit the types of procedures that can be conducted, which slows research progress in those areas.

Smaller biotech firms often face financial constraints that make it difficult to afford advanced models, forcing them to rely on less expensive alternatives, such as in silico simulations. While these ethical measures are necessary for animal welfare, they contribute to the high costs of research and can hinder innovation, particularly for smaller research entities and academic institutions.

Opportunities

Advancements in 3D Bioprinting are Creating Growth Opportunities
The development of 3D bioprinting technology has opened up exciting new opportunities in the creation of hybrid models that reduce the reliance on live animal subjects. This technology allows researchers to print tissues that mimic the biological structures of humans and animals, providing a more ethical and cost-effective alternative to traditional animal models. Companies are increasingly developing printed tissue models that are used for drug toxicity testing and other research applications.

In 2023, the FDA approved the use of bioprinted liver models for preclinical trials, signaling growing regulatory acceptance. This innovation has the potential to greatly accelerate the pace of drug development while reducing the need for live animal testing, especially in fields like oncology and neurology, where new models are in high demand.

Impact of Macroeconomic / Geopolitical Factors

Economic instability and geopolitical tensions are influencing the lab animal models market, with inflation raising operational costs for breeding facilities, leading to higher prices for genetically modified strains. Trade restrictions, especially between the US and China, have disrupted the supply of essential raw materials, including genetically modified strains, which has delayed research progress. On the other hand, governments in various regions are investing in the development of alternative animal models, as demonstrated by funding for the Horizon Europe program, which supports the creation of non-animal testing alternatives.

Additionally, geopolitical tensions have spurred investments in local production capabilities, reducing reliance on imports and improving market accessibility. Despite these challenges, the market remains resilient, with ongoing advancements in research technology and an increasing focus on personalized medicine driving long-term growth.

Latest Trends

Rising Adoption of Humanized Mouse Models is a Recent Market Trend
Humanized mouse models, which involve engrafting immunodeficient mice with human cells or tissues, are becoming more prevalent in research, especially in oncology and infectious disease studies. These models offer a more accurate representation of human responses to diseases and treatments, making them particularly valuable in drug development and vaccine testing.

The demand for these models has increased significantly as drug development becomes more targeted and personalized. With researchers focusing more on human-specific disease pathways, these humanized models are helping improve the accuracy of preclinical trials, thus driving innovation. As the need for more precise models continues to rise, these systems are expected to play a larger role in shaping future therapies and treatments.

Regional Analysis

North America is leading the Animal Model Market

North America dominated the market with the highest revenue share of 44.8% owing to increased biomedical research funding, rising demand for personalized medicine, and advancements in genetic engineering technologies. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) allocated US$2.5 billion for preclinical research using animal subjects in 2024, supporting various therapeutic areas, including neurodegenerative diseases.

Additionally, the USDA documented a 25% increase in primate imports for research purposes in 2024, reflecting the growing need for translational models. These developments, combined with strong academic-industry collaborations, solidified North America’s position as the dominant market for research models.

The Asia Pacific region is expected to experience the highest CAGR during the forecast period

Asia Pacific is expected to grow with the fastest CAGR owing to expanding pharmaceutical R&D investments, government-backed biomedical initiatives, and increasing outsourcing of preclinical studies. China’s National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) approved a significant rise in drug trials using animal subjects in 2024, signaling accelerated domestic research activity.

Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare allocated US$800 million for regenerative medicine studies in 2024, alongside US$150 million to establish new animal research facilities. Australia’s National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) funded a notable increase in projects requiring preclinical models in 2024 compared to 2022. These strategic developments, coupled with regional cost advantages in research services, position Asia Pacific for substantial market expansion in the coming years.

Key Regions and Countries

North America

• US
• Canada

Europe

• Germany
• France
• The UK
• Spain
• Italy
• Russia
• Netherland
• Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific

• China
• Japan
• South Korea
• India
• Australia
• New Zealand
• Singapore
• Thailand
• Vietnam
• Rest of APAC

Latin America

• Brazil
• Mexico
• Rest of Latin America

Middle East & Africa

• South Africa
• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• Rest of MEA

Key Players Analysis

Key players in the animal model market drive growth by investing in product innovation, forming strategic partnerships, and expanding their global presence. They focus on developing advanced animal models that closely mimic human diseases, enhancing the predictability of research outcomes. Collaborations with academic institutions and pharmaceutical companies facilitate the integration of cutting-edge technologies, broadening market reach. Additionally, targeting emerging markets with increasing research activities presents significant growth opportunities.​

GenOway, headquartered in Lyon, France, specializes in the development and production of genetically modified animal models for research purposes. The company offers a wide range of services, including the creation of custom models and the distribution of ready-to-use models, catering to various research applications. GenOway emphasizes technological advancements and quality, aiming to provide researchers with reliable tools for drug discovery and disease modeling. Through strategic collaborations and a global distribution network, GenOway continues to expand its influence in the animal model market.​

Top Key Players

• The Jackson Laboratory
• Nimmune Biopharma
• Inotiv
• Harbour BioMed
• Crown Bioscience
• Charles River Laboratories
• Biosplice Therapeutics
• BIOCYTOGEN

Recent Developments

• In September 2024, Nimmune Biopharma formed a strategic alliance with BioTherapeutics, Inc. to fast-track the development of innovative medical products. This partnership grants Nimmune access to BioTherapeutics’ advanced preclinical and regulatory services, enhancing the development of both animal and computational models aimed at advancing precision immunology therapies.
• In June 2024, Biosplice Therapeutics, Inc. entered into a collaboration with Novo Nordisk to jointly create novel drug candidates for diabetes treatment. This partnership aims to leverage both companies’ expertise in drug development to accelerate the creation of effective treatments for diabetes.

Report Scope