What is the role of the IACUC in ensuring humane endpoints are defined?

• A. The IO determines humane endpoint criteria.
• B. Endpoints are optional.
• C. The PI defines endpoints without IACUC input.
• D. The IACUC reviews and approves predefined humane endpoint criteria to prevent undue suffering.

Answer: (D)

Defining and approving humane endpoint criteria is a responsibility of the IACUC to protect animals from unnecessary suffering. The IACUC reviews the study plan to ensure there are clear, predefined criteria for when an animal should be removed from the study or euthanized to prevent undue pain or distress, and they must approve these criteria before the work proceeds. This oversight ensures that monitoring procedures, humane endpoints, and actions to minimize suffering are built into the protocol from the start. The PI can propose endpoints, but they need IACUC review and approval, and ongoing oversight may require modifications if the study progresses or new risks are identified. Endpoints are not optional; they are a mandatory part of humane animal care.