RDS is pleased to see that the National Centre for the 3Rs (NC3Rs) has posted information on its website about systematic reviews. NC3Rs is one of many organisations which could take an interest. This is because of the potential to use systematic reviews to improve experimental design, and so reduce the numbers of animals used in research, as well as achieve better (and more ethically acceptable) results.

A recognition of the need to ensure the highest quality of experimental design, statistical analysis and retrospective review of animal studies is something we believe should be embraced. There is cause for concern that we are not always getting it right. On the other hand, the good news is that this has been recognised by leading organisations like the Biosciences Federation, which has organised a series of meetings on experimental design for animal researchers.

Ultimately there is no reason why the UK could not become an established world leader in this area. We are already among the leaders in quality of biomedical science, 3Rs research, and the culture of care for laboratory animals.