Applying the 3Rs to neuroscience research involving nonhuman primates

This Feature focuses on UK neuroscience research using nonhuman primates (NHPs), and the application of the 3Rs, in the light of the recent EU SCHEER report and subsequent article by Prescott et al. (2017). The challenge of understanding the human brain and its disorders means that NHP research is still very much needed, although it is essential that this research is complemented by studies using other approaches, such as human volunteers and patients, and other alternatives to NHP use. Analysis of recent publications shows that these complementary approaches are already being actively exploited by NHP researchers in the UK. Application of the 3Rs has been led by the UK National Centre for the 3Rs (NC3Rs), with active participation of UK NHP researchers, who are constantly refining research methodology. However, not all refinements work, and those that do succeed need to be fully validated before they can be introduced more widely into current practice. More generally, the 3Rs have helped to ameliorate harm experienced by NHPs in procedures, although there is still more to do. Accumulating evidence from recent UK Home Office statistics suggests that most monkeys used in scientific procedures experience a moderate rather than a severe level of harm.