Standards of Animal Care in Biological Experiments

The use of animals is a necessary component of experimentation. The utilization of animals is a privilege not a right. Therefore, certain guidelines must be maintained in order to ensure their humane care and use. This chapter includes the basic principles of animal care and use, and reviews various procedures that are specific to renal experimentation. Our goal is also to provide guidance to the knowledgeable neophyte and serve as a refresher for the seasoned researcher. Individuals who are conducting research that involves animal use should enlist the help and guidance of the laboratory animal professional(s) at their respective institutions. Guidance may be provided by an institutional program or individual mentoring, but is a regulatory requirement that must be fulfilled. Proper care and use of animals will provide the investigator with the best scientific results. Unwanted variables in experimental procedures may result from improper care and use, and may confound results. Rodents are the most commonly used animal for experimental procedures. In light of the evolving transgenic technology, this trend will most likely continue.