What does IACUC stand for?

The term IACUC stands for Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee. This committee plays a crucial role in overseeing and evaluating all aspects of an institution's animal care and use program. Its primary purpose is to ensure that researchers uphold ethical standards and comply with regulations regarding the treatment of animals in research settings. The committee is responsible for reviewing research proposals, ensuring that humane treatment standards are met, and that there is justification for the use of animals in research, which includes evaluating alternative methods that may be available. This oversight is essential for fostering ethical research practices and ensuring regulatory compliance in facilities that conduct studies involving animal subjects.