The on-site peer review process involves continual change. Primarily, this is the result of continued research in the field of laboratory animal health and science. Unnecessary research should not be duplicated. Alternative techniques are discussed in considerable detail at the Animal Welfare Center of the National Agricultural Library. This agency also acts as a repository for research that involves the use of animals and, thus, is a valuable resource.
Replacement means considering insentient material instead of conscious living organisms.
Typically, this involves the use of tissue cultures or nonrecovery techniques. Reduction refers to reducing the number of animals in the experiment. This can be accomplished through the use of more sophisticated statistical designs, such as repeated measures or mixed designs. Lastly, Refinement refers to reducing the need for or severity of invasive procedures. The goal is to reduce pain and distress.