ATLA::Alternatives to Laboratory Animals

Volume 23, Number 3

The third R: refinement.

ATLA 23, 332-346, May/June 1995

Andrew N. Rowan

Tufts Center for Animals and Public Policy, 200 Westboro Road, North Grafton, MA 01536, USA

SUMMARY

This review attempts to provide an introduction to the complicated subject of refinement, the third R in the concept of alternatives. It starts with a brief discussion of what refinement means and the lack of specific attention paid to this third R. This is followed by an analysis of the conceptual underpinnings of pain, distress and suffering and the problems of both definition and measurement which must be faced if we are to be objective and consistent in our search for refinement. The review then touches upon husbandry, care and handling issues as they affect animal discomfort and distress. Antibody production, both polyclonal and monoclonal, is discussed as an example of the refinement of research techniques. Finally, a few brief comments are offered on the refinement of a variety of other experimental techniques including those used in toxicology, cancer research and behavioural research.

Keywords: refinement, alternatives, pain, distress, anxiety, suffering, toxicology techniques, antibody production, cancer research techniques, blood sampling