Replacement and NAMs

The R for Replacement refers to initiatives that focus on the direct replacement of laboratory animals with animal-free alternatives. This can be achieved using computer models or cell and tissue culture methods, but also, where possible, by testing directly on humans.  

The term Replacement fits well with the conventional thinking about the use of laboratory animals, but essentially excludes non-animal methods that do not directly focus on replacement. This realisation has led to an increase in the use of the more inclusive non-animal methods or new approach methodologies (NAMs). NAMs are all methods that do not use laboratory animals, including methods that do not directly focus on replacing existing laboratory animal use.

You can read more about the 3Rs on the website of the 3Rs Centre Utrecht.