The Three Rs (Replacement, Reduction, Refinement)

The Three Rs—Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement—are principles aimed at improving ethical practices in research, especially involving animals. **Replacement** encourages finding alternatives to using animals in experiments, such as computer models or cell cultures. **Reduction** focuses on minimizing the number of animals used in research, ensuring that only necessary subjects are involved to achieve valid results. **Refinement** aims to enhance animal welfare throughout experiments, ensuring that any pain or distress is minimized through better techniques and care. Together, these principles promote responsible and humane scientific practices.