Is the IO permitted to approve animal activities without IACUC approval?

The Institutional Official (IO) is not permitted to approve animal activities without the prior approval of the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC). This requirement is rooted in the ethical and regulatory framework governing animal research. IACUCs are established to ensure that all animal-related activities adhere to humane standards and federal regulations, including the Animal Welfare Act and the Public Health Service Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals.

The IACUC is responsible for reviewing research protocols to assess the necessity and appropriateness of animal use, ensuring minimal distress to the animals, and confirming that the scientific goals are justified. By requiring IACUC approval before any activities involving animals can commence, the integrity of research practices is upheld.

While the IO plays a crucial role in institutional oversight, their responsibilities do not extend to approving animal use directly without IACUC's review. This separation of duties helps maintain accountability and ethical standards in animal research.