Respectful dialogue and connection at the conference ‘The 3Rs and NAMs: all-inclusive?’

26 August 2024

On June 19, the Jaarbeurs Media Plaza Utrecht was packed with various stakeholders in biomedical and translational science. Researchers focused on New Approach Methods (NAMs) and the 3Rs (Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement of animal testing), alongside policymakers, representatives of regulatory agencies industry, the IMPROVE network, various NGOs, and funding agencies, gathered to explore the best way forward towards animal-free biomedical research.

Young TPI and Young DALAS, represented by Victoria de Leeuw and Felicia van der Flier, kicked off the conference by emphasizing the support needed for young professionals to achieve their personal ambitions in their studies and careers.

The first keynote speaker, Hans Clevers, showcased cutting-edge research on various types of organoids and spoke about the future of translational biomedical research. Thomas Hartung, the second keynote speaker, discussed the potential of artificial intelligence to reduce animal use in biomedical research.

The afternoon programme consisted of two sessions featuring speakers and panel discussions. These sessions sparked questions and insights into the differences and similarities between the 3Rs and NAMs thinking frameworks, including: are NAMs free from ethical concerns? What can both fields learn from each other? What constitutes good validation? How can researchers be encouraged to make ethical choices? Do responsible research practices depend on our willingness to change?

Overall, the broad gathering of various stakeholders provided valuable insights into advancing animal-free biomedical research. One participant remarked: “Meetings like these help to have a dialogue, we should continue with that”. We couldn’t agree more.

We extend our gratitude to all participants, both in person at Jaarbeurs Media Plaza Utrecht and online, for their inspiring, critical, and valuable contributions. Special thanks to our speakers, panelists, and chairperson Desiree Hoving. We also thank our organizing partners, the TPI programme, NCad, and TPI Utrecht, for their contributions to this conference.

See the pictures below for an impression of the conference. Pictures are taken by Robert Oosterbroek.

Interaction during the conference
Desiree Hoving throwing the catchbox to the audience to collect their input.
Jeffrey and Erica opening the conference
Jeffrey Bajramovic (3RCU) and Erica van Oort (TPI programme) welcomed the participants, encouraging them to have their say.
Pitch by YoungDALAS and YoungTPI
Felicia van der Foier (YoungDALAS) and Victoria de Leeuw (YoungTPI) highlighted the types of support a young professional needs in the biomedical field.
Keynote by Hans Clevers
Hans Clevers presented inspiring and cutting-edge research on organoids.
Keynote by Thomas Hartung
Thomas Hartung discussed the current role of AI in the biomedical field and the potential in reducing laboratory animals.
Presentation by Jeffrey Bajramovic
Jeffrey Bajramovic was one of the presenters in the first afternoon session. He presented the work done at the 3Rs Centre Utrecht.
Panel discussion
Panel discussions complemented the presentations in both afternoon sessions.
Coffee discussions
Participants were able to discuss the gathered information and insights during multiple coffee breaks.