The CCP 5R Framework – Ethical, Reproducible and Responsible Animal Research

The Czech Centre for Phenogenomics is committed to animal research that is not only ethically sound but also scientifically excellent and socially responsible. Building on the internationally established 3Rs (Replacement, Reduction, Refinement), CCP has adopted an extended 5R Framework that incorporates two additional principles essential to modern translational research.

Replacement
We actively develop and validate alternatives to animal experiments, including organoid systems and in silico tools, reducing whole-animal use wherever scientifically feasible.

Reduction
Through IMPC data sharing, rigorous statistical planning and multicentre collaboration, we minimise animal numbers while maximising the information gained from every study. The planned projects undergo an a priori power analysis and study design review by our dedicated Bioinformatics & Biostatistics Unit, ensuring that the minimum number of animals is used to achieve statistically robust, publication-quality results.

Refinement
Our SPF barrier facilities, non-invasive monitoring technologies and continuous welfare training ensure the highest standards of animal care across all CCP modules and units. Machine learning-based imaging and morphological scoring tools, developed and maintained by our Bioinformatics & Biostatistics Unit, further reduce the need for invasive or repeated procedures by extracting richer phenotypic information from non-invasive measurements.

Reproducibility
All CCP workflows are governed by internationally harmonised SOPs, GLP- compliant where required, and linked to open data repositories. Reproducibility is the link between animal research and its real-world applications in medicine and drug development. Our Bioinformatics & Biostatistics Unit provides mandatory statistical consultation at the study design stage, evaluating experimental design, sample size, randomisation, blinding, and analytical strategy before work begins to ensure that every study produces results that are reliable, transferable, and independently verifiable. Primary data are deposited in open access repositories in accordance with FAIR principles.

Responsibility
As a nationally funded infrastructure, CCP publishes transparent animal use statistics, operates under a commitment to environmental sustainability, and actively engages with patients, the public and partner institutions to maintain the social licence that responsible science requires.