Animal Research Regulation and Techniques

📋 Course Outline

MODULE 1: ANIMAL ETHICS, REGULATION & IN VIVO BEHAVIOURAL MODELS

1. UK Legal Framework & Licensing (ASPA 1986)

• The Act: Regulated via the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 and updated by European Directive 2010/63/EU (enacted in the UK in 2013). Banned completely for cosmetic testing.

• Scope: Covers all living vertebrates (e.g., mice, rats, fish, birds) and living cephalopods.

  • Special Protection: Horses, cats, dogs, and non-human primates require stringent justification.
  • Exclusions: Invertebrates like C. elegans (nematode worms) and Drosophila melanogaster (fruit flies) are not covered.

• Definition of a "Procedure": Any experimental act that may cause an animal a level of pain, suffering, distress, or lasting harm equivalent to or greater than the introduction of a hypodermic needle.

• The 3 Mandatory Licences Required:

1. Establishment Licence (PEL): Authorises the specific institute/facility. Ensures accommodation, holding pens, and veterinary care meet strict legal standards.
2. Project Licence (PPL): Authorises the specific programme of research. Outlines the experimental design, justification, and clear scientific goals.
3. Personal Licence (PIL): Authorises the specific individual executing the surgery or procedure. Verifies the operator has completed verified training, skills, and competency testing.

2. The 3 R's Principle