What are the four categories of protocol reviews?

The four categories of protocol reviews include initial review, annual review, three-year review, and review of proposed modifications. This categorization aligns with the established processes within Institutional Animal Care and Use Committees (IACUCs) for ensuring ongoing compliance and ethical oversight of animal research.

The initial review is critical as it assesses new study proposals to determine if they meet ethical guidelines and regulatory standards before any research activities begin. Following this, the annual review serves as a mechanism to evaluate ongoing studies for continued adherence to protocols, taking into account any changes in the research environment or practices that may affect animal welfare.

The three-year review may be implemented to reassess the overall performance and compliance of approved protocols over a longer timeline, ensuring that the research still meets necessary standards. The review of proposed modifications plays an essential role in evaluating any changes to existing protocols, ensuring that all adjustments continue to align with ethical considerations and regulatory compliance.

This structured approach maintains high standards in the humane treatment of animals in research while ensuring that protocols remain relevant and responsible throughout the life of the study.