Naoko Kagiyama

Detection of mouse hepatitis virus antibody by protein A-ELISA in 6 prevalent inbred strains or outbred stocks of mice

Protein A was applied as a reagent for the secondary reaction in ELISA (protein A-ELISA). Mouse hepatitis virus antibody in 6 prevalent mouse strains or stocks reared in a MHV-contaminated room was effectively detected by protein A-ELISA, whereas significant strain differences in the antibody detection rate were demonstrated using the complement fixation test. C57BL/6 mice were particularly reactive in the protein A-ELISA test.

Japanese guidelines and regulations for scientific and ethical animal experimentation

With the amendment of the Law for the Humane Treatment and Management of Animals, the specifications for the use of animals for scientific purposes have been revised and the 3R principle has been given legal standing (Tab. 1). The amendment came into force on June 1, 2006. The Ministry of the Environment regulates humane treatment of animals under the Law, and “Refinement” is specified in the Standards Relating to the Care and Management of Laboratory Animals and Relief of Pain as shown on the left in Figure 1. “Replacement” and “Reduction” are considered as the items to be discussed when the animal experimental protocol is prepared and are not direct methods to implement well-being of animals. There was a critical debate on whether it is wise to regulate scientific procedures by legislative measures, and if yes, whether the Law is the most preferable one or not. Eventually, members of the Japanese Diet concluded that bioscience should not be regulated only from the aspect of humane treatment of animals. They thought that appropriate animal experimentation could be better accomplished based on guidelines and not by stringent legislation.