3Rs (Reduction, Replacement, Refinement)

The 3Rs—Reduction, Replacement, and Refinement—are guiding principles in animal research aimed at ethical treatment. Reduction encourages researchers to use the fewest animals possible to obtain valid results. Replacement promotes using alternative methods, like computer models or cell cultures, instead of live animals whenever feasible. Refinement focuses on modifying procedures to minimize pain, suffering, and stress for the animals involved. Together, these principles aim to improve animal welfare while still allowing scientific progress, fostering responsible and humane research practices.