The 3Rs in zebrafish research

The 3Rs (replacement, reduction and refinement) are an ethical framework for carrying out scientific procedures involving animals and are embedded in international law. With the significant increase in the use of zebrafish in the biosciences, it has never been more necessary to emphasize the importance of applying the 3Rs to studies involving zebrafish. This can include finding opportunities for replacement, such as using mathematical or computer modelling in place of zebrafish, or embryonic or foetal forms of vertebrates. Any refinements must be robustly validated to ensure that they improve welfare, reduce potential harm and suffering and are designed to encourage zebrafish to engage in species-specific behaviours. Researchers and facility staff should be adequately supported to implement refinements when there is strong evidence that they will enhance the lives of laboratory zebrafish. There are resources and guidelines available to assist in the design and reporting of zebrafish experiments, and animal research more broadly, with the aims of improving the reproducibility of these studies and minimizing the number of animals required to obtain statistically meaningful results. Embedding the 3Rs in zebrafish research ensures that the highest standards of welfare are applied and has the potential to advance scientific progress through better reporting and more reproducible studies, and the development of new methods and technologies.