A framework and resource for global collaboration in non-human primate neuroscience

Abstract

As science and technology evolve, there is an increasing need for promotion of international scientific exchange. Collaborations, while offering substantial opportunities for scientists and benefit to society, also present challenges for those working with animal models, such as non-human primates (NHPs). Diversity in regulation of animal research is sometimes mistaken for the absence of common international welfare standards. Here, the ethical and regulatory protocols for 13 countries that have guidelines in place for biomedical research involving NHPs were assessed with a focus on neuroscience. Review of the variability and similarity in trans-national NHP welfare regulations extended to countries in Asia, Europe and North America. A tabulated resource was established to advance solution-oriented discussions and scientific collaborations across borders. Our aim is to better inform the public and other stakeholders. Through cooperative efforts to identify and analyze information with reference to evidence-based discussion, the proposed key ingredients may help to shape and support a more informed, open framework. This framework and resource can be expanded further for biomedical research in other countries.

Keywords: Ethics; Macaque; Marmoset; Regulations; Requirements; Welfare.

Graphical abstract

Fig. 1

Schematic summary of country regulation data compiled fromTable 1, Table 2 (a) The levels of animal welfare review carried out across the 13 countries included in this survey: Belgium, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Iran, Japan, Mexico, the Netherlands, Russia, the United Kingdom (UK), and the United States of America (USA). All surveyed countries have a local animal welfare review committee designated to review animal research protocols and procedures. Some (N = 5) of these countries (France, India, Iran, the Netherlands, the UK) also have a national animal welfare review committee that is involved in animal research project authorization. (b) The extent of similarity across different table sections is shown for each of the 13 countries reviewed. There is a consensus on seeking project authorization, regulatory oversight, providing physical enrichment, following a humane method of euthanasia, implementation of the 3Rs*, placing limits on the overall discomfort of animals and, following strict guidelines, fluid control may be permissible (reflected by the darker green ‘Yes’ circles). The use of wild-caught NHPs for neuroscience research purposes is largely banned, except in India and the USA (see main text for comment). *The 3Rs is an acronym for Replacement, Reduction and Refinement, three key principles used to promote animal welfare in scientific research, originally proposed by Russell and Burch (1959).

Fig. 2

Harm-Benefit Analysis (HBA) as a common moral imperative. (A) Bateson's cube used to capture the low-to-high probability of the three core factors assessed in the HBA: (1) Importance of Research, (2) Likelihood of Benefit, and (3) Animal Suffering (Bateson's cube. Adapted from PLOS ONE. doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0193758.g001). If research is of high importance with a certain likelihood of benefit, and minimal level of suffering, then it will fall into the hollow (unfilled) area of the figure, meaning research should proceed. Painful, less important research with lower likelihood of benefit will be categorized in the solid (filled) area, and should not proceed. Most research will not be clear-cut, but the guiding principle is 'hollow' should continue, 'solid' should not. (B) Overview summary of the Harm-Benefit Analysis (HBA) used for the approval of NHP protocols across the 13 countries included in this review.

Fig. 3

Five key ingredients interact to support the goal of effective, responsible and collaborative global non-human primate (NHP) research. Through the analysis of the regulations as well as the identification of common ground and understanding of cultural differences, we may achieve timely regulatory assessment and support for international collaborations in NHP biomedical research. Through cooperation we can synergize strategies to attain our overall aims of advancing scientific knowledge. The sharing of knowledge and resources coupled with communication is a critical step towards reaching the central goal. As with any recipe, the key ingredients influence the end result and, in our case, interact to establish the multifaceted goal of effective, responsible and collaborative global NHP research.