If a grant is for longer than 3 years, can the triennial review period be extended?

The triennial review period for animal research protocols is established to ensure ongoing compliance with ethical standards and regulations. When a grant is longer than three years, the requirement for a de novo review every three years is essential to maintain oversight and adherence to both the Animal Welfare Act (AWA) and the Public Health Service (PHS) Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals.

Conducting a de novo review means that the entire protocol is reviewed afresh, allowing the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) to evaluate the use of animals in light of the most current regulations, changes in the research environment, and advancements in animal welfare science. This process is pivotal in ensuring that any amendments, refinements, or changes in research methodology comply with ethical and regulatory standards.

Extending the triennial review period would contradict this fundamental principle of regular, rigorous reevaluation. Therefore, regardless of the duration of the grant, the de novo review requirement must be adhered to every three years to protect animal welfare and ensure that protocols remain scientific and ethical.