RE-Place

RE-Place catalogs New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) — including computer modeling, high-throughput testing, omics analyses, and sophisticated cell cultures — and links them to experts and research centers in Belgium to facilitate adoption of methods that can reduce experimental animal use.

Key Features:

• Centralized Database: Aggregates information on available New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) within Belgium.
• Expert Linkage: Connects NAM information with experts and research centers specializing in these methodologies to facilitate knowledge exchange.
• Data Integrity and Security: Applies quality control to submitted data and protects personal data and intellectual property rights.
• Incentives for Collaboration: Addresses barriers to collaboration to promote cooperative research using NAMs.

Scientific Applications:

• Identification and selection of NAMs: Enables researchers to locate NAMs such as computer modeling, high-throughput testing, omics analyses, and sophisticated cell cultures for specific research needs.
• Reduction or replacement of animal experiments: Facilitates adoption of alternatives that can reduce or replace experimental animal use.
• Support for regulatory assessment: Provides information sharing and transparency to aid broader adoption and regulatory evaluation of NAMs.

Methodology:

Implements a bottom-up mapping of existing methodologies, uses a standardized template for consistent data collection, and iteratively integrates entries into the online database guided by expert feedback.