Dyreforsøgsgodkendelse

Dyreforsøgsgodkendelse refers to the official authorization process required before any scientific research involving animals can be conducted in Denmark. This process is governed by strict legislation, primarily the Animal Experiments Act, which aims to protect animal welfare and ensure that animal use is justified and conducted ethically.

The core of the dyreforsøgsgodkendelse lies in the evaluation of research proposals by a dedicated committee. This committee, appointed by the Danish Medicines Agency (Lægemiddelstyrelsen), includes experts in animal welfare, veterinary medicine, and relevant scientific fields. Researchers must submit detailed applications outlining the purpose of the study, the species and number of animals to be used, the experimental procedures, and the measures taken to minimize animal suffering.

Key principles guiding the approval process are the 3Rs: Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement. Replacement emphasizes finding alternatives to animal testing whenever possible. Reduction focuses on using the minimum number of animals necessary to obtain statistically valid results. Refinement involves modifying procedures to minimize pain, suffering, and distress for the animals.

If a proposal meets the ethical and scientific criteria, and adheres to the 3Rs principles, it will be granted dyreforsøgsgodkendelse. This approval is specific to the project described in the application, and any significant deviations require a new approval. The system ensures that animal experiments are conducted only when deemed essential for scientific progress and under stringent welfare standards.