How often must the IACUC perform an annual review of a protocol?

The requirement for the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) to perform an annual review of a protocol is based on the regulations set forth by the Animal Welfare Act and the Public Health Service Policy. The correct answer articulates that the IACUC must conduct this review at least once a year, typically occurring before each anniversary of the initial protocol approval. The purpose of this annual review is to ensure that the research being conducted remains in compliance with ethical standards, welfare measures, and federal regulations.

Annual reviews allow the IACUC to assess any changes in the study, evaluate any new information that may impact animal welfare, and ensure that all aspects of the research are still justifiable. This process fosters ongoing oversight and commitment to the humane treatment of animals in research settings. Maintaining this annual timeline is crucial for upholding the integrity of animal research and protecting the welfare of the animals involved.