Vanesa Ayala-Nunez’s Post

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Scientist @ Empa | Research Planning, Project Management, Collaboration

Revisiting the 3Rs with a more holistic approach...👇🏽👇🏽

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Connecting with 3D Biology Researchers driving Innovation

Many of us are familiar with the principles of the 3Rs. But did you know the framework has been expanded to 12Rs? In this recent commentary, the authors referenced the expanded framework while reasoning on the original 3Rs by Russell and Burch, in light of current understanding of animal consciousness and suffering. Here's how they revisited the original framework: 🔄 Replacement remains the ultimate goal. The aim is to eliminate the use of animals in research, testing, and education altogether. Until then, Reduction and Refinement must work hand-in-hand, even in studies designed to benefit animals directly - such as vaccine development for pets. 📉 Reduction is more than shrinking sample sizes. It’s about fostering collaboration across institutions, enabling better data sharing, and reducing the overall number of animals used while producing more impactful and reliable results. 🛠️ Refinement prioritizes minimizing suffering. This involves advancing research methods, enriching animal environments to support natural behaviors, and, when feasible, opting for species with fewer welfare needs. 📖 Long-story-short, the evolution of the 3Rs today reflects a holistic, compassionate approach to animal welfare in research, where innovation and collaboration drive progress. 👏 Bravo to the authors for such a compelling discussion! What are your thoughts on the evolution of the 3Rs framework? Let’s discuss! 💬 p.s. Thanks to WORC.Community for spreading this nice read! #3dbiology #3rs #organoids #spheroids #animaltesting

Giulia Rizzo

Connecting with 3D Biology Researchers driving Innovation

4w

Thanks for sharing, Vanesa! Taking a comprehensive view on the matter is not just essential but also our responsibility, today more than ever

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