I need to understand the responsibilities of the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC). Please tell me: 1) What are the primary functions of the IACUC as listed on this website? 2) What is the minimum number of members required for an IACUC? 3) What is the role of the veterinarian member on the IACUC?
Navigate to 'olaw.nih.gov'. Click on 'Welfare and Compliance Topics'. Click on 'Browse the Topic Index' under 'Topic Index'. Click on 'IACUC Composition, Functions and Authority' link within the Topic Index. Read the 'Functions of the IACUC' section to identify the primary functions. Read the 'IACUC Membership' section to identify the minimum number of members required. Identify the role of the veterinarian member within the IACUC composition. Synthesize all gathered information to answer the questions.
The agent successfully navigates to the 'IACUC Composition, Functions and Authority' topic page. The agent states that the primary functions of the IACUC include 'reviewing and approving animal use protocols', 'inspecting animal facilities and study areas', 'reviewing the institution's program for humane care and use of animals', 'investigating concerns involving the care and use of animals', and 'making recommendations to the Institutional Official'. The agent states that the minimum number of members required for an IACUC is 'at least five members'. The agent states that the veterinarian member must have 'training or experience in laboratory animal medicine or in the use of the species being housed or used' and be 'certified (e.g., ACLAM) or have documented experience in the care and use of laboratory animals'.