Academic biomedical science in Berlin is a focal point of animal-based research in Germany. According to the current state of science, animal experiments will be necessary in general and thus also in Berlin in the foreseeable future. Overarching aim of animal experiments is the transfer of the results to gain knowledge about the target species, in most cases: about humans. Consequently, the qualification of methods and the comparison of data generated by testing in human cell-based models, animals and human in vivo are essential steps towards the transferability of results.
For this reason, it is essential that science in Berlin works energetically, verifiably and visibly to improve unavoidable animal experiments and to develop robust alternative methods that can be applied by a wide range of users to create trust in the related scientific activities.
The further development and consistent implementation of the 3R principle – Replace, Reduce, Refine – is an integral task of academic biomedical research. In order to promote 3R research, 3R methods must gain acceptance within the scientific community itself. In public, animal experiments are critically debated, and the challenges of alternative methods are often underestimated. The goal of the Einstein Center 3R is therefore to promote the trustworthiness of 3R research in science and the public. As a strong biomedical research location with its proximity to key stakeholders, Berlin offers ideal conditions for comprehensively pursuing the objective of implementing the 3Rs.
Collaborative Research Network
The EC3R aims to boost alternative methods with the long-term goal of Reduction and Replacement. For this purpose, it implements a Collaborative Research Network that is focusing on the joint development of 3D tissue culture models. The network provides a platform for crosscutting topics like the agreement on standards and comparative validation of models.
Cross-sectional Projects
Two Cross-sectional Projects spark the Collaborative Research Network by innovative artificial intelligence applications and an extended quality management, leading to the increase of 3R research quality.
Education and Training
The EC3R provides a comprehensive Education and Training program. Consistent training in the 3Rs with all its facets lays the foundation for trust and dissemination in science. Therefore, the integration and Berlin-wide opening of the broad spectrum of measures of all institutions and addition of complementary activities will improve the awareness, knowledge and application of 3R methods.
Communication and Outreach
The EC3R fosters Communication and Outreach on 3R research. Comprehensive, honest and fact-based communication is a necessity to inform scientists and the public about the great opportunities and challenges of implementing the 3Rs. The EC3R strenghtens the visibility of the strong Berlin 3R activities and communicates transparently and scientifically sound. Citizens can retrieve comprehensible information and are invited to enter into a dialogue with the scientists.