STRATEGIES FOR REPLACING ANIMALS IN BIOMEDICAL-RESEARCH

In 1959, Russell and Burch published their recommendations for applyin g the Three Rs (reduction, refinement and replacement alternatives) to the use of animals in scientific experimentation. At this time, they could not have predicted the effect of this fundamental concept on aca demic and industrial animal experimentation and in biomedical educatio n, although more than 30 years have passed, their ideas are gaining re spectability and wide acceptance. This article reviews the recent adva nces in the use of non-animal methods in biomedical research, and disc usses the outlook for the further implementation of 'alternatives'.