Future action plan of the Japanese Society for Alternatives to Animal Experiments

Abstract

The Japanese Society for Alternatives to Animal Experiments, under international cooperation, promotes and supports research, development, education, standardization, etc. related to alternative methods of animal experimentation with the aim of promoting and disseminating the 3Rs (Reduction, Refinement, Replacement), which are international principles for the appropriate implementation of animal experimentation. We also conduct activities to return the results to society. Although many researchers from different fields have been involved in the development of many test methods, the focus of research has shifted from local toxicity (eye irritation and skin irritation) to systemic toxicity and long-term toxicity, which are more difficult to develop. In addition, the industries that require alternative methods are expanding not only to cosmetics, but also to a wide range of industries that deal with medical devices and chemical substances such as food, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural chemical.

In order to develop new test methods based on the 3Rs concept and solve the problems faced by each industry, it is important not only to develop existing test methods but also to actively incorporate new information and technologies. For this purpose, it is necessary to interact with researchers from related societies. We also believe that it is of great social significance to propose policies on how we can support the promotion of SDGs through our activities.

In this presentation, I will introduce the future action plan of the Japanese Society for Alternatives to Animal Experiments. (1) Cooperation with Asian countries: Collaboration with 3Rs-related organizations in China, Korea, India, etc., through the Asian congress, and dissemination and promotion of 3Rs research in Asian countries, (2) promotion of 3Rs research in Japan: development of 3Rs-related research using new research methods through collaboration with other academic societies and interaction among researchers, (3) fostering of next generation researchers involved in 3Rs-related research: challenge contest for junior high and high school students, etc.

We hope that this symposium will not only discuss the future prospects of 3Rs research, but also provide a forum for discussion among experts in your research fields.