In the absence of IACUC approval, can any other body or official approve an animal protocol?

The assertion that only the IACUC can approve protocols is backed by the regulatory framework governing animal research. The IACUC (Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee) is established to ensure the ethical and humane treatment of animals used in research. This committee evaluates protocols to ensure they meet the standards set by federal laws and institutional policies, thereby protecting the welfare of the animals involved.

The necessity for IACUC review and approval stems from federal regulations, such as the Animal Welfare Act (AWA) and the Public Health Service (PHS) Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals. These guidelines emphasize rigorous oversight of all animal research and mandate that no research can commence without prior IACUC approval. This system of checks and balances helps ensure that all protocols consider animal welfare, scientific validity, and ethical implications.

Potential justifications or external approvals from other authorities don’t substitute for IACUC review. While sometimes institutional officials may have authority in specific contexts, their involvement does not negate the requirement for IACUC oversight. Therefore, approval from any entity besides the IACUC is not permissible under standard operating procedures as required by federal guidelines.