What does refinement aim to achieve in animal research?

Refinement in animal research focuses specifically on minimizing pain and distress to research animals. This concept is part of the ethical framework guiding animal research, which also includes reduction and replacement strategies. Refinement encompasses the development and implementation of better procedures, techniques, and care practices that reduce the suffering experienced by animals during experiments. This could involve improving housing conditions, minimizing invasive procedures, or administering analgesics to alleviate pain. The ultimate goal of refinement is to enhance animal welfare while still allowing researchers to gather valuable scientific data. This aligns with ethical standards that emphasize not just the necessity of using animals in research, but ensuring humane treatment throughout the research process.