NATworks Database – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the NATworks Database and who is it for?
The NATworks Database is an interactive platform providing an overview of companies engaged in human-relevant research using Non-Animal Technologies (NAT), New Approach Methodologies (NAM), and alternative methods. The platform is designed for researchers, industry professionals, regulatory authorities and policy makers interested in human-based research innovation and company offerings as well as identifying research and collaboration partners. Moreover, the NATworks Database is officially listed in the JRC catalogue of Transitional Initiatives supporting the EU Roadmap towards animal-free chemicals safety testing.

2. How does the NATworks Database differ from other NAT Databases?
Unlike other databases such as the NAT Database, which are listing research methods based on scientific publications, NATworks focuses on companies as primary sources. Entries describe company products, services, and business models rather than individual peer-reviewed studies.

3. What kinds of companies are listed in the NATworks Database?
You will find a broad range of companies, including producers, contract research organizations (CROs), service providers, and start-ups offering products and services related to human-based or animal-free research. Companies must offer or develop products, methods, or services relevant to human-based research and testing. Companies are selected using an AI-based approach with predefined fixed criteria and subsequent manual quality control. We are only listing companies that are not conducting animal experiments.

4. Can I use the NATworks Database to analyze industry trends, and how can I interpret and use the interactive charts?
The NATworks Database offers dynamic, interactive charts and statistics (e.g., “Number of companies per country,” “Organs used in models,” “Distribution of endpoints by region”) that help identify sector trends and hotspots within the human-based R&D ecosystem. These charts visualize the database composition based on user-defined search parameters and filters. By clicking on chart elements, users can refine and explore results directly; detailed breakdowns appear beneath each chart. Additional guidance is available under “How to read these charts.”

5. How up-to-date is the information?
All company entries are regularly curated and updated using public sources and direct company feedback, but changes may occur between updates. Each entry includes basic company details, product and service info, and relevant research areas.

6. Can I suggest a company for inclusion or update an entry?
Yes, if you notice missing or outdated information or want your company featured in the NATworks Database, please contact the team via info@nat-works.org.

7. Are all companies using regulatory-compliant methods?
Not necessarily. The database includes both regulatory and non-regulatory approaches.
Users can apply filters such as Certifications or Approved Test Methods to focus on companies operating under recognized standards.

8. How are privacy and data protection handled?
The platform adheres to relevant privacy and data protection standards for all company- and user-related information. All information provided in the NATworks database is publicly available.

9. Who maintains the NATworks Database and how can I cite it?
The database is maintained and updated by DAAE. For citation, use: “NATworks Database, [www.nat-works.org]”

10. What should I do if I encounter technical issues?
If you experience difficulties with site performance, search, visualization, or discover broken links, please contact support via info@nat-works.org.