Animal research in the UK: Regulation, implementation, welfare and development of new approach methodologies

Use of animals in biomedical research is still considered essential by many in academia, industry and regulatory authorities. Therefore, it is important that legal, governance and welfare procedures are in place to ensure that only necessary procedures using animals are carried out and that this occurs within a framework with animal welfare at its core. Animal research in the United Kingdom is conducted under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 and animal research in the United Kingdom has long been seen as a flag bearer for high quality–high welfare research. An example of the leading role taken in supporting animal welfare in research was establishment of the National Centre for the Replacement, Refinement and Reduction of Animals in Research (NC3Rs) to support reducing the scale and impact of animal research. Here, we provide an overview of governance and licensing procedures of animal research in the United Kingdom, coupled with explanations of how excellent welfare underpins high quality research, and examine the development of new approach methodologies.