What does an IACUC review evaluate in a protocol involving mice?

• A. Statistical power and sample size calculations only.
• B. Housing and husbandry practices only.
• C. Animal welfare considerations, humane endpoints, alternatives, pain and distress minimization, and overall study design.
• D. Data analysis plan only.

Answer: (C)

IACUC review focuses on ensuring animal welfare throughout a proposed mouse study. It looks at how pain and distress will be minimized, what humane endpoints are planned (the criteria for ending the experiment or euthanizing an animal to prevent unnecessary suffering), and whether alternatives to animal use have been considered. It also evaluates the overall study design to make sure the scientific goals justify the use of animals and that procedures are refined to limit suffering. Welfare-related aspects like housing and husbandry are included, along with appropriate veterinary oversight and training, all in line with the 3 Rs: Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement. While elements such as statistical power, housing specifics, or data analysis are part of a rigorous protocol, they are not the sole focus; the emphasis is on balancing ethical animal care with valid scientific methods.