IC-3Rs News

A major step forward in promoting the use of non-animal derived antibodies has been taken with the launch of the Recombinant Antibodies and Mimetics Database, developed by the Centre for Human Specific Research.

This user-friendly, first-of-its-kind resource categorises recombinant antibodies and antibody mimetics based on their origin, discovery, and production methods, using a clear colour-coding system to indicate the involvement of animals or animal-derived biomaterials in the manufacturing process.

Currently featuring thousands of entries and expanding regularly, the database serves as a valuable tool for researchers, Animal Welfare Bodies, National Committees, and others seeking replacement opportunities in line with the 3Rs.

The call for submissions for the EPAA Refinement Prize 2025 has officially been launched. This €6000 prize is intended for a laboratory technician, animal caretaker, or technologist who has demonstrated outstanding achievements in innovative approaches to refine animal testing or promote awareness of refinement practices.

Interested to submit? Applications should be sent to GROW-EPAA@ec.europa.eu by Monday 1 September 2025 at 12:00 (noon) CET.

The Swedish 3R Center and the German 3R Competence Network in North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) together with the RWTH Aachen University published an online survey focusing on the single housing of male mice and their living conditions. This survey is aimed at professionals involved in biomedical animal research, including scientists, veterinarians, animal welfare officers, and animal caretakers.

The goal is to better understand the prevalence of single housing, the reasons behind it, and to gather diverse professional perspectives. Participation is anonymous, and all responses will be used solely for research purposes. 

Responses can be submitted until the 18^th of May.

Are you a PhD student or early career researcher presenting at MPS2025? If your work focuses on 3R Replacement methodology, you could win the RE-Place Best Poster Award!

🔹 Eligibility: First author of a poster at MPS2025, ≤ 40 years old.
🔹 Selection Criteria: Scientific merit, novelty, and presentation clarity.
🔹 Deadline: Submit your CV, supervisor’s supporting letter, abstract, proof of registration, and confirmation of attendance at the closing ceremony by April 1, 2025.

Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity!

Abstract submission for the 2025 MPS World Summit in Brussels, Belgium is now open. The deadline for submission is Wednesday, January 15 at 11:59 PM ET. Submit your abstract by consulting this website.

Also the preliminary program for the MPS World Summit is now available online. The program this year will focus on new developments in microphysiological systems and their applications which are divided into four themes:

• Theme 1: MPS Development and Results Processing
• Theme 2: MPS for Biomedical Research and Disease Modelling
• Theme 3: MPS for Efficacy, ADME, and Toxicity Testing
• Theme 4: MPS for Industrial and Regulatory Testing

The detailed program can be found on

IC-3Rs was proud to be part of this fantastic initiative! Over 1600 science enthusiasts gathered at Muntpunt Brussel to explore the world of science from every angle. IC-3Rs had the opportunity to inspire both young children and their parents with a workshop on alternative methods, titled "Geniaal Gifvrij - Medicijnen testen zonder proefdieren." The astonished looks on the children's faces after performing the experiment were the spark that fuels their curiosity for science, perfectly capturing the essence of Socrates' famous words, "Wisdom begins in Wonder."

During the autumn holidays, IC-3Rs was invited to give a lecture on animal testing and the use of alternative methods in scientific research at the yearly autumn camp of Bekina VZW for gifted children (age 8-18). The numerous challenging questions posed by the children clearly illustrated their interest and enthusiasm to the topic. This lecture was rewarding for us, as the questions provoked interesting discussions among the scientist and the children.

In September, we took part in the TADA (Toekomst Atelier De L’Avenir) weekend schooling program. TADA coaches young people (ages 10-14) from vulnerable backgrounds in Brussels and broaden their horizons through a variety of guest lectures on Saturdays. As invited experts, we introduced the students to the field of Pharmaceutical Sciences with a workshop focused on animal-free, alternative methods for drug safety testing.

In 2021, Animal Welfare Flanders, in consultation with researchers and organisations, launched a project aimed at reducing animal testing in Flanders. Researchers provided information and insights on opportunities for reduction the number of laboratory animals during roundtable discussions and based on these discussions an action plan has been compiled. More than 20 different stakeholders from academia, industrial and governmental institutions proposed a concrete plan to reduce animal testing in their organization at the start of this project. The action plan has been finalized and a report on the progress of the actions described in the action plan has been published now. IC-3Rs had a prominent role in the realisation of the actions proposed by the VUB. The results and achievements of the action plan can be consulted via the report below.