Replace, Reduce, Refine

Alternatives, when used in the context of animal based research usually brings to mind the use of computer programs to Replace the use of animals. In fact, the term alternatives really includes two other concepts - reduction and refinement.

"The three R's", as they have come to be known, were first introduced to the research community by Drs. Burch and Russell in a 1995 paper entitled "The Principles of Humane Experimental Technique. While replacement may be the final goal it is the other two R's which are accessible to all types of research.

Reduction

Reduction is any change in experimental procedure which reduces the number of animals required.  The purpose is not to use animals for multiple procedures but to use less animals to obtain the same amount of data.

Refinement

Refinement is any change in experimental procedure which allows the use of a more primitive species. Refinement is any change in experimental procedure which reduces pain or distress to the animal.  For example developing a surgical procedure that is less invasive is a refinement.

Sources of Information on Alternatives

Below are some links to sites which provide a variety of information from a variety of perspectives. They all focus on the use of Alternatives

Canadian Council on Animal Care

This page provides links to a large number of sites providing information on alternatives to the use of animals in research, teaching and testing.

This site provides a wide range of information regarding alternatives animal testing.

This organization's objective is to stimulate the development, validation, and application of alternatives to animal experiments in the Netherlands.

This site provides numerous links to alternatives to the use of animals in teaching and testing.

This site comes under the NIH umbrella and contains a wide range of information.

Numerous links and information about organizations and databases holding information on alternatives to the use of laboratory animals.

Last updated on Tuesday, 20 January 2004