Humane endpoints in shock research

In biomedical research using animal models, the phrase "humane endpoints" refers to predetermined criteria used to judge when the research animals should be humanely euthanized. The intended goal of humane endpoints is to minimize the distress or suffering of research animals; however, if...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Shock (Augusta, Ga.) Ga.), 2004, Vol.21 (1), p.17-25
Main Authors: NEMZEK, Jean A, XIAO, Hong-Yan, MINARD, Anne E, BEIGES, Gerald L, REMICK, Daniel G
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Anesthesia. Intensive care medicine. Transfusions. Cell therapy and gene therapy
Animal Welfare
Animals
Animals, Laboratory
Biological and medical sciences
Body Temperature
Disease Models, Animal
Euthanasia
Humans
Intensive care medicine
Medical sciences
Mice
Rats
Research Design
Sepsis
Shock
Time Factors
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Summary:In biomedical research using animal models, the phrase "humane endpoints" refers to predetermined criteria used to judge when the research animals should be humanely euthanized. The intended goal of humane endpoints is to minimize the distress or suffering of research animals; however, if applied incorrectly, this well-intended concept could lead to premature decisions and inaccurate data, resulting in a waste of animal life. A concensus on specific endpoints for shock and inflammation research is not available but several biochemical, physical and behavioral parameters have been suggested for other research models. In addition, the authors have found, in the studies presented here, that increasing body weight, decreased body temperature, and inability to ambulate are important parameters in a model of cecal ligation and puncture. However, it is clear that the applicability of these endpoints may change with the model of disease, intensity of insults, experimental treatments and other factors. Consequently, humane endpoints should be assigned cautiously and preferably after preliminary studies to prevent aberrant research results. In order to accomplish this, investigators must become aware of certain concepts including: when to implement endpoints, what endpoints to consider, and how to establish the endpoints for their studies. Equipped with the basic principles of humane endpoints, investigators can make informed decisions that meet current standards of animal care while still achieving the scientific goals of their research studies.
ISSN:1073-2322
1540-0514
DOI:10.1097/01.shk.0000101667.49265.fd