Animal-free research methods and models are becoming more prevalent. We are intensifying our efforts to promote the qualification, validation and acceptance of these innovations to pave the way for their integration into scientific practice. At the same time, there is an evident need for greater expertise and knowledge among researchers, biotechnologists and relevant bodies regarding these NAMs (new approach methodologies). Fortunately, several initiatives exist to support researchers and other stakeholders with structured overviews and make information on NAMs more accessible and easier to navigate.
NAMs databases initiators share their insights
To highlight some of these initiatives and make them more accessible to researchers and other stakeholders, we spoke with the individuals behind the development and administration of these platforms.
Unfamiliarity with NAMs databases
The 3Rs Centre Utrecht carried out an inventory study commissioned by the Transition Programme for animal-free Innovation (TPI), that examined access to expertise in the field of New Approach Methodologies (NAMs), the need for additional expertise and also initiatives to increase this access. The findings indicate that multiple initiatives are available for offering researchers support and expertise for developing, qualifying (fundamental and translational research), validating (safety research) and applying animal-free innovations. Yet only 3% of the respondents report using these databases and platforms. The main causes cited are unfamiliarity with the initiatives and lack of knowledge on how to use them.