Research data integrity: a result of an integrated information system

The toxicologic problems of today frequently require long-term, multidisciplinary experimentation involving large numbers of animals. In order to provide the extensive safety evaluation necessary to produce data that can be reasonably extrapolated to humans, automated research support systems have transcended the position of useful tools and have become an integral part of the total design of experimental protocols. For an automated information system to fully represent the reality of the experiment, it must be able to assure integrity, as well as provide for the storage, calculation, and retrieval of data values of the quality and quantity necessary for fulfilling protocol requirements. Guarantees against error and loss of data, in addition to flexibility and easy access, must be an inherent part of the system if the acceptance and condifence of the investigator are to be obtained. This paper discusses the criteria, philosophies, and benefits of integrated data systems that ensure integrity of toxicologic research support.