Which of the following is a major goal of the IACUC?

• A. To enhance the speed of research operations
• B. To ensure the ethical treatment of research animals
• C. To minimize research costs
• D. To expand the types of animals used in research

Answer: (B)

The primary goal of the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) is to ensure the ethical treatment of research animals. This entails overseeing the care and use of animals in research to confirm that humane practices are followed, that animals are treated with respect throughout their involvement in scientific studies, and that their welfare is prioritized. The IACUC evaluates research proposals to ascertain that the use of animals is justified and that adequate measures are in place to minimize pain and distress.

While other factors may contribute to research operations, such as speed, cost-minimization, and the types of animals used, these factors are secondary to the core premise of animal welfare and ethical considerations. Thus, ensuring the ethical treatment of animals remains the central tenet of what the IACUC seeks to uphold in the context of animal research.