The IACUC reviews and inspect, at least once every six months, the institution’s program for the humane care and use of animals, and the animal facilities (including the satellite facilities). The committee regularly meets to deal with issues as they arise, such as new protocols or animal concerns. In each case, the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals (Guide) is used as the basis for evaluation. The IACUC then prepares evaluations as set forth in the PHS policy and submits semi-annual and annual reports to the PHS and the USDA through the Institutional Official (Kenira Thompson , PhD). It also reviews any concerns involving the care and use of animals at the institution and provides written recommendations to both the Institutional Official and to any investigators involved.

All investigators intending to use animals must submit a completed IACUC Protocol using the STREAMLYNE platform as outlined below together with evidence of the appropriate CITI Program Certification for all involved personnel. The IACUC reviews and either approves or disapproves those activities related to the care and use of animals. They may also propose significant changes regarding the use of animals in ongoing activities. Investigators and the institution are informed in writing of any decision to approve or withhold approval of those activities related to the care and use of animals, or of modifications required to secure IACUC approval. Finally, the IACUC is authorized to suspend an activity involving animals.

Investigators are requested to complete a questionnaire regarding animal handling and use annually when requesting renewal of any protocol. This enables the IACUC to assess the ongoing needs of the investigator. Animal Research Facilities Workshops and ongoing training provide investigators with seminars on the ethical issues of animal use, overview of the IACUC and wet-lab. A video of prior workshops is available for loan to interested investigators or students.

Streamlyne’s IACUC Protocol & Committee Modules are designed to facilitate the institutional processes that safeguard the welfare of laboratory animals and ensure compliance with the federally-mandated humane care and use of animals involved in research, research training, and biological testing activities. Principal Investigators initiate and submit IACUC protocols, amendments, and continuations within the system. Protocols are automatically routed to the appropriate departments and corresponding IACUCs for review and approval. Reviewers and Committee Members have access to the protocols online where their comments and decisions are preserved. IACUC administrators have all the tools they need to track protocols, coordinate reviews, manage committee meetings, maintain associated correspondence, and properly administer protocols throughout their lifecycles.