IACUC Literature Searches: Home
Using this Guide
This guide should serve as an overview of the literature search requirements of Miami University's IACUC (Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee) applications, as well as a tutorial on best practices for completing them.
For more information on Miami's Animal Care and Use Program, please see their website.
Some guidance and suggestions may apply to IACUC applications at other institutions, so please check the specific requirements of your institution as they do vary.
Meeting the Requirements
Some, but not all Miami applications require a literature review.
PIs using USDA regulated species in their research are required to submit a literature review. Generally, mammals or birds not bred for research purposes are considered USDA regulated. Laboratory Mice (Mus) and Rats (Rattus) are not USDA regulated and do not require a literature review.
Research Protocols
Literature search required to:
- show non-duplication and
- search for alternatives if utilizing USDA regulated species
Research Protocols (Involving Observation / Momentary Restraint)
A literature review covering the following for both handling of animals and for observation for animals:
- alternatives or less ecologically disruptive means of accomplishing course objectives and refined means of holding animals
- likelihood of encountering species harmful to humans
- potential ecological harm to the planned environment (e.g., possible presence of pathogens that should not be transported to other sites)
Teaching Protocols
Literature search required to:
- show search for alternatives -- i.e., reduction, replacement, refinement if utilizing USDA regulated species.
Teaching Protocols (Involving Observation / Momentary Restraint)
A literature review covering the following, for both handling of animals and for observation for animals:
- alternatives or less ecologically disruptive means of accomplishing course objectives and refined means of holding animals
- likelihood of encountering species harmful to humans
- potential ecological harm to the planned environment (e.g., possible presence of pathogens that should not be transported to other sites)
Breeding Protocols
No literature search required -- but must be in support of an active research or teaching protocol
