Why are animal studies important in neuroscience research?

The human brain is extremely complex. Performing even simple actions requires a large amount of brain power. One of the most informative ways for us to understand how the brain functions and subsequent dysfunction, is by using animal models. Rodents and monkeys help us to investigate how interactions occur between brain areas during spatial navigation, decision-making, and learning and memory. These findings can help to inform therapies for patients with damage to these areas.