A valuable reference for the responsible use of animals in scientific research: “International Guiding Principles for Biomedical Research Involving Animals CIOMS-ICLAS”

Abstract

The use of animals in scientific and educational activities is a subject of debate in society, and these activities are nowadays evaluated for their ethical aspects before they begin. The purpose of this article is to review the International Guiding Principles for Biomedical Research Involving Animals, developed by the Council for International Organizations of Medical Sciences and the International Council for Laboratory Animal Science, on the criteria set as necessary to determine the responsible use of animals, aiming to harmonize regulations. The document takes Russell and Burch’s earlier statement of the Three Rs (replacement, reduction, refinement), and adds new requirements. Thus, justification, scientific value of the studies, forms of refinement such as humane endpoints, animal welfare, harm-benefit analysis and attitudes such as responsibility, respect and scientific integrity arise as necessary conditions, and the ethical concerns of society are also considered. Institutions play a major rol in the training and supervision of scientists, and in the development of a culture of care. This document provides clear guidelines and is a valuable reference where oficial regulations on the protection of animals used in scientific activities are lacking.