MORE SCIENCE, MORE CARE, LESS ANIMALS
The 6th Symposium of the Innovation Centre for 3R alternative methods (IC-3Rs ) entitled: 'More Science, More Care, Less Animals' on the 21st of September at the Health Campus VUB in Jette was a real success. 140 scientists were warmly welcomed by Minister Clerfayt and Chair Vera Rogiers.
When two well-known experts in the field explained the pro's and cons of animal-free generation of antibodies, a spontaneous and lively discussion between the speakers and participants took place.
The RE-Place project, sponsored by Animal Welfare Flanders and Brussels, could show a significant growth. Indeed, 200 animal-free alternative methods for which expertise exists in Belgium have been brought together in this unique database.
Highlight of the day was the presentation of a brand new online tool for reducing animal experimentation. It is developed at the VUB and can be applied half-way animal experiments in analogy with what is done in clinical trials.
After an animated lunch served by enthusiastic IC-3Rs collaborators, the afternoon was dedicated to Refinement and Replacement. Realistic case studies were discussed between representatives of the Ethical Committees on Experimental Animalsof 6 Belgian universities and the audience. Awards for the best video clip (Laura Cools & Mina Kazemzadeh Dastjerd) on the 3Rs, best poster (Robin Maximilian Award) and best pitch (Alexandra Gatzios) made this day also a peak event for young researchers.
Link to the programme, posters, videos, etc.: https://www.ic-3rs.org/2022-symposium/