4Rs in Ethnopharmacology - Reduce, Refine, Replace and Responsibility using Animal Models

This Research Topic provides a comprehensive exploration into the practice and implications of the 4R principals in ethnopharmacology: Reduce, Refine, Replace and Responsibility.

The 4R's offer an ethical framework for conducting research involving animal models. Reduction is the practice of minimizing the number of animals used in experiments, a process achieved through deploying efficient experimental designs and data analysis. Refinement involves altering procedures in order to lessen animal distress and improve their living conditions. Replacement is the practice of substituting animal models with alternative research methods, such as in-vitro testing or computer simulations wherever possible. Lastly, Responsibility instils an ethical commitment within researchers to acknowledge the sentient nature of these animals and ensure their welfare throughout the research journey.

Ethnopharmacology appreciates the intricate interconnection between human health and nature, often harnessing bioactive compounds from natural elements. Animal models have invariably contributed to this field, helping in understanding the pathways of various diseases and potential drug targets. However, the growing concerns over animal welfare have led to the universal acceptance of the 3R principles, and more recently, the 4R, explicitly in ethnopharmacological studies. This research topic aims to gather a holistic understanding of how the 4R principles can be synergistically incorporated into ethnopharmacological research.

Contributions from a range of viewpoints will center around novel technologies and methodologies that help to either optimize the use of animal models or offer valuable replacements. As the global ethos gradually shifts towards a more humane approach in research methodologies, this topic aspires to usher in a more compassionate research culture, effectively harmonizing scientific advancement with respect for animal welfare.

Article types and fees

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Clinical Trial
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• FAIR² DATA Direct Submission
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• ... View all formats

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Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Clinical Trial
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• FAIR² DATA Direct Submission
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Policy and Practice Reviews
• Review
• Study Protocol
• Systematic Review
• Technology and Code

Keywords: Reduction, Refining, Replacing, Responsibility, Ethnopharmacology, Animal Models

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