In this episode of Petri Dish Perspectives, we dive into the untold story of Charles River Laboratories, the quiet giant behind nearly every major drug you’ve ever heard of.
From its origins on the banks of Massachusetts’ Charles River, where Dr. Henry Foster began breeding lab rats to support post-war research, to its evolution into a global scientific infrastructure company, Charles River has shaped the very foundation of modern drug development.
We’ll explore how a small animal breeding business became the unseen force driving pharmaceutical innovation, the company’s expansion under James Foster, and its deep involvement in gene therapy, biologics, and vaccine testing.
You’ll also hear about the complex ethical landscape Charles River navigates balancing innovation and regulation in a world demanding both faster cures and higher transparency.
By the end of this episode, you’ll understand why behind every breakthrough, from oncology to rare diseases, there’s often a quiet partner ensuring that science moves safely from lab bench to bedside.
🎧 Listen now, stay curious, and don’t forget to subscribe for new episodes every Thursday!
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