What must the IACUC do if a temporary hold leads to a majority vote suspension?

When a temporary hold results in a majority vote suspension, it is essential for the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) to report the suspension to regulatory authorities. Regulatory agencies, such as the USDA or the Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare (OLAW), require that the IACUC maintain compliance with existing regulations governing animal research. By informing these authorities about the suspension, the IACUC ensures transparency and adherence to the regulations that aim to protect animal welfare and uphold ethical standards in research practices.

Reporting ensures that any issues that led to the suspension can be addressed appropriately and that the institution remains accountable for its research endeavors. This communication with regulatory authorities is crucial for maintaining trust and for future oversight, supporting an environment where animal research can be conducted responsibly and ethically.

The other options, while they may involve steps the IACUC considers, do not fulfill the immediate requirement to communicate the suspension to regulatory bodies, which is a key responsibility following a serious governance matter like a suspension.