What is the primary role of the IACUC in institutional animal research oversight?

• A. IACUC reviews and approves all animal use protocols to ensure ethical justification, animal welfare, and compliance with laws, and it monitors ongoing welfare.
• B. It conducts all surgeries on animals in the facility.
• C. It sets funding priorities for research projects involving animals.
• D. It enforces laboratory safety unrelated to animal welfare.

Answer: (A)

The IACUC’s main role is to protect animal welfare in research by overseeing all uses of animals through protocol review, ongoing welfare monitoring, and regulatory compliance. It reviews and approves every proposed animal use before work begins, evaluating the scientific justification, the number and species of animals, the procedures to be used, and how pain and distress will be minimized. It requires consideration of alternatives and humane endpoints to ensure procedures are ethically justified and humane. The committee also conducts ongoing oversight, including semi-annual protocol reviews, facility inspections, and verification that personnel are properly trained, so welfare standards are maintained throughout the study. If welfare concerns or regulatory noncompliance arise, the IACUC has the authority to suspend or modify activities to protect animals. This role does not involve performing surgeries, setting funding priorities, or enforcing safety rules unrelated to animal welfare.