UK Organizations Agree To Animal Research Transparency

By Cyndi Root

Bioscience organizations in the UK have agreed to provide more transparency in animal research. Pharmaceutical companies, universities, CROs, and charities have signed The Concordat on Openness on Animal Research, announced in a press release by the Understanding Animal Research (UAR) organization, which developed the program. The Concordat began in 2012 with 40 signatories and today that number has reached 72. Notable organizations include the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute and the BioIndustry Association (BIA). Steve Bates, BIA Chief Executive Officer, said a press release, “Whilst the BIA is not directly involved in scientific research, many of our members necessarily use animals either directly or through CROs as part of the research and development of ground-breaking technologies and therapies for patients. We will be open and pro-active in communicating about why industry conducts animal research, its benefits and limitations.

The Concordat on Openness on Animal Research

In 2012, informed in part by a public opinion poll that showed the public was curious about the state of animal research, the UAR began the Concordat program. Organizers accepted public comments and worked with journalists about how and why animals are used in research. The final document signed by the 72 organizations (still open for more participants) outlines specific commitments.

• We will be clear about when, how and why we use animals in research
• We will enhance our communications with the media and the public about our research using animals
• We will be proactive in providing opportunities for the public to find out about research using animals
• We will report on progress annually and share our experiences

Underlying the written commitments is the intent to be open about the role of animal research. Participants agree to be honest about the benefits, the challenges, and the downsides to using animals in biotech research. The Concordat encourages organizations to dedicate a spokesperson to publicize its efforts and to allow access to facilities by journalists, government officials, and community groups. Additionally, they are encouraged to provide multi-media evidence on “the reality of animal research.”

Animal Research in the U.S.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has a small role to play in animal research, because it decides if investigational drugs are safe to test on humans. In guidance to industry, the FDA explains the process, including the point in the process when animals are used. U.S. biotech companies can join the 900 members of the internationally based AAALAC (Association for Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care) that promotes humane treatment of animals in science. SUBR (States United for Biomedical Research) is another resource in the U.S. It is a non-profit network of biomedical research entities focusing on the humane care and use of research animals.