A survey on the reduction of animal use in projects funded by the National Board for Laboratory Animals (CFN) 1979-1987.

A survey was carried out on the reduction of animal use in the projects funded by the CFN between 1979 and 1987. 63 projects had received funds. 37 projects were reported in time for the symposium, and the results were presented there; surveys on another 11 projects were received later. The projects funded covered different areas, basic research, testing, evaluation studies, biological production, vaccine testing, education, improved animal experimental techniques, therapy and problems with in vitro toxicology. They were all in line with the objective of the CFN, which is to reduce animal experimentation in Sweden. A definite reduction in animal use is reported in some studies and predicted to take place as a result of others, either relatively soon or in a longer perspective. The survey has a bias, since the scientists themselves were asked to report on their projects and evaluate the effects of the reduction in the use of animals. However, the answers give rise to new interesting questions about future possibilities of animal reduction in a variety of areas and this points at one of the main conclusions, namely the need for further investigation into areas of interest. In order to work out a realistic strategy for reduction of animal use, a coordinating body is needed to investigate areas of promise, where animals either can be reduced or experimental techniques refined, and develop strategies for addressing target areas. The CFN should play such an offensive role.