Animal research has been crucial to many scientific discoveries, but ethical concerns surrounding the use of animals in experimentation have long sparked discussions about responsible scientific practice.

The paper “Toward a common interpretation of the 3Rs principles in animal research”, proposes a concise and updated interpretation of the 3Rs (Replacement, Reduction, Refinement) which integrates current knowledge on sentience and the ability to feel pain and suffering in animals, and underlining the link between animal welfare and scientific progress. The approach aligns with the basic philosophy of Russell and Burch, the first to define the 3Rs, but expands to include the concept of One Health, recognizing the interconnection between human, animal and ecosystem health.

Promoting a shared understanding of the 3Rs is essential to harmonize practices globally, addressing the challenges of modern research and leveraging new methodologies.

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