The 3R principle and the use of non-human primates in the study of neurodegenerative diseases: the case of Parkinson's disease.
The aim of this paper is to offer an ethical perspective on the use of non-human primates in neurobiological studies, using the Parkinson's disease (PD) as an important case study. We refer, as theoretical framework, to the 3R principle, originally proposed by Russell and Burch [Russell, W.M.S., Burch, R.L., 1959. The Principles of Humane Experimental Technique. Universities Federation for Animal Welfare Wheathampstead, England (reprinted in 1992)]. Then, the use of non-human primates in the study of PD will be discussed in relation to the concepts of Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement. Replacement and Reduction result to be the more problematic concept to be applied, whereas Refinement offers relatively more opportunities of improvement. However, although in some cases the 3R principle shows its applicative limits, its value, as conceptual and inspirational tool remains extremely valuable. It suggests to the researchers a series of questions, both theoretical and methodological, which can have the results of improving the quality of life on the experimental models, the quality of the scientific data, and the public perception from the non-scientist community.
Vitale
Augusto
A
Section of Behavioural Neuroscience, Dipartimento di Biologia Cellulare e Neuroscienze, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299, Rome 00161, Italy. vitale@iss.it
Manciocco
Arianna
A
Alleva
Enrico
E
D017087:Animal Rights / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D000826:Animal Testing Alternatives / Q000592:standards*; D000818:Animals; D004195:Disease Models, Animal; D006801:Humans; D010300:Parkinson Disease / Q000473:pathology / Q000503:physiopathology; D011323:Primates; D012106:Research / Q000592:standards*; D012107:Research Design