How does the IACUC interact with investigators?

• A. Investigators have final say in protocol decisions without IACUC input.
• B. Investigators must submit annual progress reports to IACUC only.
• C. IACUC approves protocols and monitors compliance without investigator involvement.
• D. The IACUC reviews protocols proposed by investigators, monitors compliance, and ensures welfare; investigators must follow approved protocol and report deviations.

Answer: (D)

IACUC oversight involves collaborative, ongoing protection of animal welfare: it reviews proposed studies, approves protocols, and then continuously monitors compliance to ensure humane treatment. Investigators submit a protocol detailing the animals, procedures, housing, analgesia or anesthesia, endpoints, and how welfare will be protected. The committee evaluates whether the plan minimizes pain and distress, considers alternatives, and ensures humane endpoints. Once a protocol is approved, investigators must carry out the work exactly as approved and promptly report any deviations, unexpected problems, or noncompliance to the IACUC. The IACUC’s role is not to be hands-off or to act without investigator involvement; it actively oversees the project, and investigators participate in maintaining compliance through amendments, annual reviews, and timely reporting. This combination—protocol review, ongoing welfare monitoring, and adherence with reporting—best describes how the IACUC interacts with investigators.