The 3Rs

• In 1950s, William Russell and Rex Burch developed the concept of the 3Rs–

1. Replacement
2. Reduction
3. Refinement

• The Principles of Humane Experimental Technique and these principles are now broadly accepted as the framework under which research on animals should be conducted.

A. Replacement

a. Means replacing ‘higher’ animals with ‘lower’ animals

• Microorganisms, plants, eggs, reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates may be used in some studies to replace warm-blooded animals

b. Alternatively, live animals may be replaced with non-animal models, such as

• Dummies for an introduction to dissection for teaching the structure of the animal or the human body
• Mechanical or computer models, audiovisual aids, or in vitro modeling

c. Replacing experiments on animals with alternative techniques, such as

• Cell cultures instead of whole animals, artificial organs, using epidemiological studies, etc.

B. Complete Replacement

• An alternative method should not require any animal-derived biological material.

Examples:

• Use of predictions based on physical and chemical properties of molecules
• Mathematical and computer studies of biological processes (Virtually reality)
• Analysis of epidemiological data
• Research involving human participants
• Research on isolated human cells and tissues in culture

C. Incomplete Replacement

• Some biological material obtained from living or killed animals as research on cells and tissues for culture in vitro

D. Reduction

• Means minimizing the number of animals needed to perform an experiment or teach a concept.
• By examining these parameters, we can design experiment by minimizing overall animal use
• Reducing the number of animals used in experiments by:

1. Improving experimental techniques
2. Improving techniques of data analysis
3. Sharing information with other researchers
4. Consulting with a statistician to use only the numbers of animals required to achieve significance
5. Minimizing variables such as disease, stress, diet, genetics, etc., that may affect experimental results
6. To ensure that experiments are not duplicated if literature support

E. Refinement

• Means refining experimental protocols to minimize pain or distress using a protocol form. Examples:

1. Identifying pain and distress and making plans for preventing it
2. Receiving adequate training prior to performing a procedure
3. Using proper handling techniques for animals

• Refining the experiment or the way the animals are cared for so as to reduce their suffering by:

1. Using less invasive techniques
2. Better medical care
3. Better living conditions

• Refine the way animals are treated to minimize any impacts upon them