Replacement means avoiding or replacing sentient animals with alternative methods. This includes absolute replacements (non-sentient systems, e.g., computer models, cell cultures) and relative replacements (species with lower pain perception, e.g., some invertebrates).
Per the Canadian Council on Animal Care (CCAC), replacement approaches include:
- Systematic reviews/meta-analyses of existing literature
- Physical and chemical analysis techniques
- Mathematical and computer models
- In vitro systems (e.g., tissue models)
- Human volunteer and epidemiological studies
- Invertebrates with less-developed neurophysiology, where appropriate
Before submitting an animal care application, researchers must document that no suitable replacement exists for their research question.
UBC Resources
- Imaging & Genomics Resources: Advanced imaging/genomics platforms that reduce reliance on invasive procedures. See the Imaging & Genomics Resources page.
- Literature and Database Searches: Check existing reviews and datasets before designing a new study. Your Clinical Veterinarian can help.
External Tools
- CCAC Three Rs Microsite (Canada): Canada's national animal care regulator's guidance and resources on replacement methods.
- 3Rs Collaborative (U.S.): a research-institution-facing nonprofit advancing practical 3Rs initiatives, including microphysiological systems and a 3Rs certification course.
- SMAFIRA (Germany): a free, government-developed tool to screen PubMed for candidate non-animal methods.
- NC3Rs (UK): guidance on replacing animal-derived reagents and products.
Notes on Replacement
Non-animal models can't yet replicate the full complexity of living systems in every case. Researchers are encouraged to revisit replacement throughout your project. Where no alternative exists, apply Reduction and Refinement rigorously instead. Contact your Clinical Veterinarian with questions before submitting your application.