Which document must be submitted for IACUC review before initiating an animal research project?

• A. Research proposal
• B. Animal care plan
• C. Animal use protocol
• D. Informed consent form

Answer: (C)

The document that must be submitted for IACUC review before initiating an animal research project is the animal use protocol. This protocol outlines the specifics of how animals will be utilized in the research, including the types of procedures that will be performed, the number and species of animals that will be involved, the justification for the use of animals, and how the welfare of the animals will be safeguarded.

Submitting the animal use protocol is essential as it allows the IACUC to evaluate the proposed research to ensure compliance with ethical standards and regulatory requirements. This review process is in place to minimize the impact on animals, promote humane treatment, and ensure that any potential pain or distress is mitigated appropriately.

While the research proposal may include general information about the study, and the animal care plan could detail the provisions for housing and care of the animals, they alone do not provide the comprehensive details required for the IACUC to make an informed decision about the ethical aspect of the research. The informed consent form is related to human subjects and is not applicable to the review of animal research protocols. Therefore, the animal use protocol is the critical document for this process.