Education

Good Science Begins With The Right Research Tool

Biomedical research uses many approaches: human clinical and population studies, cells and tissues, organoids, computer models, engineered systems, observational research and, when necessary, animal models. Each approach can answer some questions better than others. Responsible research starts by choosing methods that are scientifically appropriate, carefully justified, and fit for purpose.

How Researchers Choose a Model

Researchers begin with a specific question and the evidence already available. They consider which biological process to study, whether an existing method can answer the question, how they will measure results, what limitations the method has, and how to design the study efficiently. The strongest research programs often use several complementary approaches so researchers can compare and refine findings.

Why Animals Are Used In Research

Living organisms contain interacting immune, nervous, cardiovascular, endocrine and other systems that cannot always be reproduced fully in an isolated cell culture or computer model. In some studies, an animal model may help researchers understand those interactions, evaluate safety, study the course of disease, or develop treatments for people and animals.

An animal model is not a simple stand-in for a person. Researchers must select and justify a model based on the biological question, existing evidence, and the limits of the method. Researchers interpret findings alongside results from other research approaches.

The 3Rs

The 3Rs are a practical framework for responsible research design:

• Replacement: use a suitable non-animal method or a less sentient model when it can answer the scientific question.
• Reduction: use the scientifically appropriate minimum number of animals and obtain as much reliable information as possible from each study.
• Refinement: improve procedures, housing, handling and care to minimize pain or distress and enhance animal welfare.

How New Approach Methodologies Fit

New approach methodologies, often called NAMs, include tools such as advanced cell systems, organoids, organs-on-chips and computational models. These methods can replace or reduce some animal use, help researchers screen ideas earlier, and improve the design of later studies. NJABR supports adoption of NAMs when they are validated and appropriate for the question being asked.

Progress is usually strongest when researchers can combine complementary methods rather than treat one model as the answer to every problem.

Oversight and Animal Care

Before work begins, protocols involving live vertebrate animals are reviewed by an Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee, or IACUC. The committee evaluates the scientific justification, the number of animals proposed, procedures intended to minimize discomfort, and whether suitable alternatives are available. Veterinary care, staff training, appropriate housing and ongoing monitoring are integral parts of a responsible program. Additional federal and state requirements apply depending on the species, activity and source of funding.

What a Responsible Program Includes:

• A clear scientific objective and a justified choice of research method
• Review of appropriate alternatives and measures to avoid unnecessary duplication
• An appropriate statistical and study design
• Veterinary input, trained personnel and defined standards of care
• Plans to prevent or minimize pain and distress
• Ongoing oversight, recordkeeping and correction of identified concerns

Frequently Asked Questions

Why can’t non-animal methods replace every animal model today?

Some questions can already be answered without animals, and that capability continues to expand. Other questions depend on interactions across a whole living system or on long-term biological responses that current non-animal methods do not fully reproduce. The appropriate approach depends on the question, the evidence required and the performance of the available method.

Who reviews proposed animal studies?

Institutional IACUCs review proposed work and oversee animal care and use programs. Committees include scientific, veterinary and nonscientific perspectives, including at least one member who is not affiliated with the institution. Government agencies and independent accreditation organizations may provide additional oversight, depending on the program.

Does supporting NAMs conflict with supporting responsible animal research?

No. The 3Rs encourage researchers to replace, reduce and refine animal use whenever scientifically appropriate. Supporting innovation and maintaining access to necessary, well-justified animal models are complementary parts of rigorous research.

How does NJABR support better research practice?

NJABR provides programs on the 3Rs, emerging methods, animal care and welfare, IACUC practice, reproducibility and public policy. We also connect professionals who can share practical experience across institutions and disciplines.