Which committee is responsible for reviewing and approving animal care and use protocols in research laboratories?

• A. IACUC
• B. Institutional Review Board
• C. OSHA
• D. FDA

Answer: (A)

The Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee oversees animal research to ensure humane care and use. This committee reviews and approves every protocol involving vertebrate animals, checking that procedures minimize pain and distress, that anesthesia and analgesia are appropriate, that housing and enrichment meet welfare standards, that veterinary care is available, and that the number of animals used is scientifically justified. They also verify that personnel are trained and that ongoing compliance is maintained through inspections and regular re-approval. Other options don’t fit this specific role: an Institutional Review Board handles human subjects, OSHA focuses on workplace safety, and the FDA regulates product testing rather than approving an institution’s animal care protocols.